Mesenchymal Stem Cell Differentiation Pathways & Lineage-specific Markers

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are defined as multipotent, self-renewing progenitors that can be differentiated into adipocytes, chondrocytes, and osteocytes. Originally identified in mouse bone marrow, MSCs have now been discovered in a variety of species and isolated from numerous tissues including adipose, placental, dental pulp, and umbilical cord. Despite the classical trilineage differentiation that functionally identifies MSCs, these cells have also been shown to differentiate into non-traditional lineages to produce cardiomyocytes, endothelial cells, hepatocytes, and neural cells. To date, the biological properties of MSC identification, differentiation, and function have yet to be confirmed in vivo, raising caution for the extrapolation of in vitro generated data. The mechanisms controlling MSC self-renewal and differentiation are thought to be influenced by a diverse set of growth factors, receptors, intracellular signaling molecules, and transcription factors. The factors depicted below are known to influence MSC multipotency, proliferation, and lineage commitment. MSCs and their differentiated progeny can be identified by the expression of a unique combination of cell surface markers and transcription factors. Unique identifiers for each cell can be viewed by clicking on that cell-type within the lineage pathway.

To learn more, please visit our Mesenchymal Stem Cells Research Area.