Skip to main page content
U.S. flag

An official website of the United States government

Dot gov

The .gov means it’s official.
Federal government websites often end in .gov or .mil. Before sharing sensitive information, make sure you’re on a federal government site.

Https

The site is secure.
The https:// ensures that you are connecting to the official website and that any information you provide is encrypted and transmitted securely.

Access keys NCBI Homepage MyNCBI Homepage Main Content Main Navigation
Review
. 2006 Jun 29;441(7097):1068-74.
doi: 10.1038/nature04956.

Asymmetric and symmetric stem-cell divisions in development and cancer

Sean J Morrison  1 , Judith Kimble
Affiliations
Free article
Review

Asymmetric and symmetric stem-cell divisions in development and cancer

Sean J Morrison et al. Nature. .
Free article

Abstract

Much has been made of the idea that asymmetric cell division is a defining characteristic of stem cells that enables them to simultaneously perpetuate themselves (self-renew) and generate differentiated progeny. Yet many stem cells can divide symmetrically, particularly when they are expanding in number during development or after injury. Thus, asymmetric division is not necessary for stem-cell identity but rather is a tool that stem cells can use to maintain appropriate numbers of progeny. The facultative use of symmetric or asymmetric divisions by stem cells may be a key adaptation that is crucial for adult regenerative capacity.

PubMed Disclaimer

Similar articles

See all similar articles

Cited by

See all "Cited by" articles