Stem Cells and Development 2018

Throughout embryonic development and adult life, multicellular organisms depend upon the functioning and tight regulation of self-renewing stem cells that harbor different degrees of potency. These cells are thought to be implicated in the formation of tumors and play important roles in age-related pathologies. Knowledge of the mechanisms that ensure stem cell origin, function and fate, how they respond to the microenvironment, and orchestrate organ development and regeneration is instrumental in understanding healthy development, tissue homeostasis throughout life, and tumor initiation and dissemination.

JCB Editorial Board Member Maria-Elena Torres-Padilla and Senior Scientific Editor Melina Casadio assembled a collection of highly read recent JCB papers investigating morphogenesis, pluripotency and reprogramming, as well as stem cell function during adulthood, aging, and in diseases such as cancer. From 3D culture systems and human stem cell work to model systems, this collection harnesses the power of cell biology to examine the molecular and cellular mechanisms at the center of stem cell behavior and development, in particular in the embryo, germline, nervous system, intestine, bone marrow, and hematopoietic system. The selected studies highlight the complexity of the cell biological, epigenetic, genetic, and signaling mechanisms governing stem cell function and development. We hope you enjoy this special collection and look forward to your feedback on Facebook and Twitter.

Image © 2018 Carroll et al.