ABSTRACT
The adult lung consists of a trachea leading into a system of branched airways ending in millions of alveolar sacs. It contains many different epithelial cell types arranged in precise patterns along the proximodistal axis. Each region of the lung has the capacity to repair through the proliferation of different epithelial cell types. However, the precise identity of the cells mediating repair is not fully resolved. To address this problem, we are using genetic lineage-labeling techniques in the mouse. The tools we have made will also be useful for understanding how progenitor cell behavior is regulated under normal and pathological conditions.
Subject(s)
Adult Stem Cells/cytology , Lung/cytology , Lung/growth & development , Adult Stem Cells/physiology , Animals , Bronchioles/cytology , Bronchioles/growth & development , Bronchioles/physiology , Cell Differentiation , Cell Proliferation , Epithelial Cells/cytology , Epithelial Cells/physiology , Lung/physiology , Mice , Mice, Transgenic , Models, Biological , Pulmonary Alveoli/cytology , Pulmonary Alveoli/growth & development , Pulmonary Alveoli/physiology , Trachea/cytology , Trachea/growth & development , Trachea/physiologyABSTRACT
Stem cell research is being driven forward at an intense pace by creative interactions among scientists working in different fields. These include developmental and reproductive biology, regeneration, genomics, live cell imaging, RNA biology, and cancer biology, to name a few. Numerous model systems and techniques are being exploited, and lab scientists are teaming up with bioengineers and clinicians. The ferment of ideas that makes the field so exciting was in full evidence throughout the Symposium. However, many challenges still need to be overcome to translate basic discoveries into therapeutic outcomes that will save lives and fulfill the promises that have been made. This chapter summarizes some of the highlights of the Symposium and indicates future directions that are being taken by leaders in the field.
