Leucine-rich repeat-containing G-protein-coupled receptors as markers of adult stem cells

N Barker, H Clevers - Gastroenterology, 2010 - Elsevier
Gastroenterology, 2010Elsevier
Molecular markers are used to characterize and track adult stem cells. Colon cancer
research has led to the identification of 2 related receptors, leucine-rich repeat–containing,
G-protein–coupled receptors (Lgr) 5 and Lgr6, that are expressed by small populations of
cells in a variety of adult organs. Genetic mouse models have allowed the visualization,
isolation, and genetic marking of Lgr5+ ve and Lgr6+ ve cells and provided evidence that
they are stem cells. The Lgr5+ ve cells were found to occupy locations not commonly …
Molecular markers are used to characterize and track adult stem cells. Colon cancer research has led to the identification of 2 related receptors, leucine-rich repeat–containing, G-protein–coupled receptors (Lgr)5 and Lgr6, that are expressed by small populations of cells in a variety of adult organs. Genetic mouse models have allowed the visualization, isolation, and genetic marking of Lgr5+ve and Lgr6+ve cells and provided evidence that they are stem cells. The Lgr5+ve cells were found to occupy locations not commonly associated with stem cells in the stomach, small intestine, colon, and hair follicles. A multipotent population of skin stem cells express Lgr6. Single Lgr5+ve stem cells from the small intestine and the stomach can be cultured into long-lived organoids. Further studies of these markers might reveal adult stem cell populations in additional tissues. Identification of the ligands for Lgr5 and 6 will help elucidate stem cell functions and modes of intracellular signaling.
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