Investigating the Mechanisms of Cellular Metabolism in Regulating Stem Cell Functions

Research Project Outline

Stem cells are defined as cells that have the ability to perpetuate through self-renewal, and develop into mature cells of a particular tissue through differentiation. Appropriate controls of stem cell functions are critical for maintaining tissue homeostasis. It has been suggested that dysregulation of stem cell could lead to cell senescence or cancer. In this project, we attempt to reveal the potential mechanisms of cellular metabolism in regulating the functions of stem cells or cancer stem cells. We believe that this study will make significant contributions to the development of therapies for the human disease.

Related Links

• Laboratory Website: http://www.kanazawa-u.ac.jp/~ganken/hirao-hp/index.html (Japanese)