BPoD has moved!

BPoD has recently changed our domain name - we can now be found at bpod.org.uk

Please update your bookmarks!

Now in our 13th year of bringing you beautiful imagery from biomedical science every day

Search the archive of over 4000 images

Damage Control

Stores of stem cells are mobilised with the help of immune cells to repair damage

24 March 2019

Damage Control

Throughout the body, pools of stem cells provide a steady supply of replenishments to our tissues. These cells can develop into any form required, and are funnelled to nearby areas in need of repair or maintenance. But the exact process that mobilises these stores, or niches, into action at times of stress is unclear. To investigate, researchers studied stem cells in mouse skin responsible for regenerating hair. When they created a breach in the niche’s barrier, the stem cells (coloured red) responded to the damage by multiplying and calling reinforcements from the immune system (green). By recruiting help, the stem cells were able to divert resources to repairing the damage. If stem cells throughout the body interact with the immune system in similar ways to detect and deal with damage, we might one day be able to tap into this communication to help regenerate injured and diseased tissues.

Written by Anthony Lewis

Search The Archive

Submit An Image

Follow on Tumblr

Follow on Instagram

What is BPoD?

BPoD stands for Biomedical Picture of the Day. Managed by the MRC Laboratory of Medical Sciences until Jul 2023, it is now run independently by a dedicated team of scientists and writers. The website aims to engage everyone, young and old, in the wonders of biology, and its influence on medicine. The ever-growing archive of more than 4000 research images documents over a decade of progress. Explore the collection and see what you discover. Images are kindly provided for inclusion on this website through the generosity of scientists across the globe.

Read More

BPoD is also available in Catalan at www.bpod.cat with translations by the University of Valencia.