System of stem cells as learned from planarians, and a mechanism for maintaining homeostasis

Graduate School of Science

Professor Yoshihiko Umesono

Planarians are widely known as animals that have an advanced ability to regenerate parts of their bodies through ingenious use of multipotent stem cells.

In human beings, organ stem cell systems are indispensable for maintaining homeostasis, and failure of this system can lead to various diseases, such as cancer.

We aim to gain a deep understanding of the planarian stem cell system in order to contribute to maintaining human health into the 100s. No stem cells, No life!