The Impact of Cellular Signaling Pathways on Stem Cell Differentiation: Mechanistic Insights
Keywords:
stem cell differentiation, cellular signaling pathways, Wnt signaling, Notch signaling, Hedgehog signaling, TGF-β signaling, JAK-STAT signaling, cell fate determination, regenerative medicineAbstract
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Stem cell differentiation, a fundamental biological process, is orchestrated by a complex interplay of cellular signaling pathways. These pathways, triggered by extracellular cues, initiate a cascade of intracellular events that ultimately determine the cell's fate. This review delves into the intricate mechanisms by which key signaling pathways, including Wnt, Notch, Hedgehog, TGF-β, and JAK-STAT, regulate stem cell differentiation. We explore how these pathways converge and diverge to control cell proliferation, self-renewal, and lineage commitment. Furthermore, we discuss the emerging role of crosstalk between these pathways in fine-tuning cellular decisions. A comprehensive understanding of these signaling networks is crucial for advancing regenerative medicine and developing novel therapeutic strategies for various diseases.
