Abstract
We discuss here the rapid progress of stem cell therapy in myocardial infarction. In particular, we focus on the issue of transdifferentiation as a "hallmark" of the stem cell's potential to replace damaged cells of the heart. A study by Henning and colleagues in this issue of Cell Transplantation supports the alternative notion of a nontransdifferentiation-mediated protection of the heart as an equally robust mechanism underlying the therapeutic potential of stem cells.
Publication types
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Comment
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Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
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Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
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Review
MeSH terms
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Animals
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Bone Marrow Transplantation / methods
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Bone Marrow Transplantation / trends*
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Cell Differentiation / physiology*
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Cell Lineage / physiology
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Disease Models, Animal
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Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation / adverse effects
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Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation / methods
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Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation / trends*
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Hematopoietic Stem Cells / physiology
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Humans
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Myocardial Infarction / therapy*
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Regeneration / physiology*