Hepatic stellate cells and their role in the formation of the progenitor cell niche

Abstract

The processes of proliferation and differentiation of progenitor and stem cells in the body are ensured by a specific microenvironment, the stem cell niche. Universal components have been identified for all niches: supporting cells, extracellular matrix, and soluble biological factors. A niche is a dynamic system whose activity depends on regeneration needs.The review presents data on the structure of the hepatic stem cell niche and one of its main components – stellate cells and their role in pathology.