The MicroRNA pathway plays a regulatory role in stem cell division

Abstract

One of the key characteristics of stem cells is their capacity for self-renewal for long periods of time. In this respect, stem cells are similar to cancer cells, which also have the ability to divide continuously. Therefore, a critical question in stem cell biology is how cell division is regulated in these cell types; too little division can result in defective tissue homeostasis, while too much can result in cancer. In this review, we summarize recent progress and describe future challenges to understanding the role the microRNA pathway plays in regulating mechanisms controlling stem cell division. ©2006 Landes Bioscience.