Hematopoietic stem cells - why vitamin A needs to protect them from activation

Hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) are essential for the lifelong production of blood cells. Our research demonstrated that specific molecular signals, like Vitamin A, keep HSCs in a sleep-like, dormant state protecting them from exhaustion and maintaining their long-term differentiation potential. As a reaction to stress, such as blood loss or infections, dormant HSCs are activated in order to regenerate the blood system in a quick manner. We are investigating the mechanisms responsible for the resting state to develop new therapeutic approaches for the treatment of blood-related diseases.