Abstract

Mesenchymal Stem Cells: Pivotal Players in Hematopoietic Stem Cell Microenvironment

Sanaa EL Marsafy, Jérôme Larghero, Annelise Bennaceur-Griscelli and Ali Turhan

The hematopoietic stem cells (HSC) reside in a specialized microenvironment in the bone marrow (BM) referred to as the osteoblastic and perivascular niches where various components involving the mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) and their progeny are implicated in shaping the HSC compartment. Of interest, the development of various disorders including leukemia, cancers and autoimmune diseases are associated with abrasions and altered functions of MSC. Herein, we focus attention on the subtypes of MSC in the HSC niche with emphasis on their role in controlling normal and malignant hematopoiesis. Additionally, MSC therapeutic potential in targeting tumor cells will be discussed. Delineation of the cross-talk between MSC and HSC is valuable for a better comprehension of the underlying physiopathology of a given hematologic disorder and might pave the way for new therapeutic approaches.