This research project investigates a particular kind of stem cells which are found in the skin and could have huge medical potential for the treatment of wounds or pigmentation defects.
Background
The skin is the largest human organ, a complex entity consisting not only of skin cells but of many other cells like nerve and pigment cells. The existence of skin stem cells, responsible for the daily replacement of dead skin cells, has been known for a long time. But in the skin, there is another special kind of stem cells, which derives from the neural crest, an embryonic structure. These cells are called Neural Crest Stem Cells (NCSCs). Researchers have discovered that they can develop into many different cell types and occur in mice as well as in humans. NCSCs are not directly responsible for the renewal of skin cells but exactly what they do is unclear.
Because stem cells are mostly involved in healing or regenerative processes, the assumption is that the NCSCs perform a similar task and for example participate in the skin pigmentation and wound healing process. That is because wound healing not only requires skin cells but also nerve cells. Nerves grow into the wound area which is why fresh wounds react sensitively on contact. We know that this nerve growth is important for wounds to heal completely.
Aim
Initially, the research group will examine which tasks these stem cells perform and whether a connection really exists with wound healing or skin pigmentation. If this is confirmed, the researchers will look for ways to activate these stem cells and use them medically.
Significance
This project may provide ways to speed up wound healing. Advances in the treatment of pigmentation disorders are also conceivable.
Original title: Physiological role and therapeutic potential of adult neural crest-derived stem cells in the skin
Grant: CHF 562‘671.-
Duration: 36 months
Project leader
- Prof. Lukas Sommer, Anatomisches Institut, Universität Zürich