RESUMO
Pericytes are defined by both their anatomical location and molecular markers. Numerous publications have reported their role as stem cells, contributing to the formation of tissues other than blood vessels. However, using cell-lineage tracing in a new transgenic mouse model, a recent study shows that in the context of aging and some pathologies, Tbx18+ pericytes do not function as stem cells in vivo. This study challenges the current view that pericytes can differentiate into other cells and reopen questions about their plasticity. This emerging knowledge is important not only for our understanding of development but may also inform treatments for diseases.
Assuntos
Plasticidade Celular , Pericitos/citologia , Animais , Linhagem da Célula , Humanos , Camundongos , Modelos Biológicos , Células-Tronco/citologiaRESUMO
Pericytes heterogeneity is based on their morphology, distribution, and markers. It is well known that pericytes from different organs may have distinct embryonic sources. Yamazaki et al. (2017) using several transgenic mouse model reveal by cell-lineage tracing that pericytes are even more heterogeneous than previously appreciated. This study shows that pericytes from within the same tissue may be heterogeneous in their origin. Remarkably, a subpopulation of embryonic dermal pericytes derives from the hematopoietic lineage, an unexpected source. Reconstructing the lineage of pericytes is central to understanding development, and also for the diagnosis and treatment of diseases in which pericytes play important roles.
