Stem Cell Biology: Mechanisms of Self Renewal and Differentiation

Stem cells possess the unique capacity to self-renew while maintaining the potential to differentiate into specialized cell types, making them central to development, tissue homeostasis, and regeneration. The balance between self-renewal and differentiation is tightly regulated by intrinsic genetic programs and extrinsic signals from the surrounding microenvironment. Disruption of this balance can lead to developmental defects, degenerative diseases, or malignant transformation. Understanding the fundamental mechanisms governing stem cell behavior therefore remains a critical goal in modern biology and biomedical research.The stem cell niche plays a pivotal role in regulating self-renewal and differentiation by providing biochemical signals, mechanical cues, and metabolic support. Interactions between stem cells and neighboring stromal, immune, and vascular cells shape niche properties and influence lineage outcomes. Moreover, systemic factors such as aging, inflammation, and metabolic status can alter niche function, thereby impacting stem cell performance and regenerative capacity.Technological innovations have enabled precise dissection of stem cell mechanisms in both physiological and pathological contexts. These approaches have accelerated the translation of stem cell biology into regenerative medicine and disease modeling. However, challenges remain in controlling differentiation outcomes, ensuring long term stability, and minimizing tumorigenic risk in therapeutic applications.This Research Topic aims to bring together experimental and computational studies that elucidate the mechanisms underlying stem cell self-renewal and differentiation across developmental and adult systems. By integrating insights from molecular biology, systems biology, and bioengineering, this collection seeks to advance a comprehensive understanding of stem cell regulation and its implications for human health and disease.Key research areas include but not limited to• Transcriptional and epigenetic regulation of stem cell self-renewal• Signaling pathway integration in stem cell fate decisions• Stem cell heterogeneity and dynamic state transitions• Niche mediated control of stem cell maintenance and differentiation• Metabolic and mechanical influences on stem cell behavior Topic editors: Elisa Di Pasquale, Anastasia Conti, Katiucia Batista Silva Paiva Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/76719/stem-cell-biology-mechanisms-of-self-renewal-and-differentiation