생화학분자생물학회

	Jiahn Choi( jiahn.choi@einsteinmed.edu )
	2023-present	Instructor, Department of Cell Biology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
	2018-2023	Postdoctoral fellow, Department of Cell Biology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
	2014-2018	Ph.D., Department of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
	2009-2011	M.S., Department of Bio and Brain Engineering, KAIST, Daejeon, South Korea
	2005-2009	B.S., Department of Oriental Pharmacy, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, South Korea

Intestinal stem cells: guardians of homeostasis in health and aging amid environmental challenges

The intestinal epithelium is the first line of defense and acts as an interface between the vast microbial world within the gastrointestinal tract and the body’s internal milieu. The intestinal epithelium not only facilitates nutrient absorption but also plays a key role in defending against pathogens and regulating the immune system. Central to maintaining a healthy epithelium are intestinal stem cells (ISCs), which are essential for replenishing the intestinal epithelium throughout an individual’s lifespan. Recent research has unveiled the intricate interplay between ISCs and their niche, which includes various cell types, extracellular components, and signaling molecules. In this review, we delve into the most recent advances in ISC research, with a focus on the roles of ISCs in maintaining mucosal homeostasis and how ISC functionality is influenced by the niche environment. In this review, we explored the regulatory mechanisms that govern ISC behavior, emphasizing the dynamic adaptability of the intestinal epithelium in the face of various challenges. Understanding the intricate regulation of ISCs and the impact of aging and environmental factors is crucial for advancing our knowledge and developing translational approaches. Future studies should investigate the interactive effects of different risk factors on intestinal function and develop strategies for improving the regenerative capacity of the gut.

Exp Mol Med. 2024 Mar;56(3):495-500. doi: 10.1038/s12276-024-01179-1.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38424189/