Regulation of asymmetric stem cell division: spindle orientation and the centrosome

Abstract

Asymmetric stem cell division, as a means of maintaining adequate numbers of stem cells, has attracted widespread attention from researchers in the stem cell biology field. Yet, the molecular and cellular mechanisms that govern asymmetric stem cell division remain poorly understood. Stem cells are not the only cell population that divides asymmetrically, and fortunately, great progress has been made in the understanding of asymmetric cell division during development, providing insight into strategies that stem cells may employ to divide asymmetrically. This review will summarize the importance of stem cell function and the role of asymmetric division in controlling stem cell behavior.