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Comment
. 2013 Jan 23;32(2):176-7.
doi: 10.1038/emboj.2012.337. Epub 2012 Dec 18.

Subdivision of bone marrow microenvironments: purpose built homes for haematopoietic stem cells

Edwin D Hawkins  1 , Cristina Lo Celso
Affiliations
Comment

Subdivision of bone marrow microenvironments: purpose built homes for haematopoietic stem cells

Edwin D Hawkins et al. EMBO J. .

Abstract

EMBO J (2013) 32 2, 219–230 doi:; DOI: 10.1038/emboj.2012.308; published online November 27 2012

The identification of distinct bone marrow microenvironments that support haematopoietic stem cell (HSC) survival and function is one of the most significant recent advances in our understanding of HSC biology. While the intricate organization of these structures and their effect on HSC is on its own a fascinating biological question, solving this puzzle remains a key step in the development of more efficient stem cell therapies through improved in vitro HSC culture systems. In this issue, a study conducted by Wang and colleagues describes a novel structure within the bone marrow and provides evidence for an additional layer of complexity and compartmentalisation within the bone marrow microenvironment, suggesting the presence of specialised structures that support clonal HSC expansion.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Haemospheres likely initiate as an invagination of bone, mediated by bone remodelling around a vessel branch and eventually providing space for a growing clone of haematopoietic stem/progenitor cells. Larger cavities, such as the main femur diaphysis marrow space, allow mixing of haematopoietic clones. The maintenance of haemospheres depends on signalling through VEGF receptor 2.
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Comment on

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