Stem cell quiescence: the challenging path to activation

Quiescence is a cellular state in which a cell remains out of the cell cycle but retains the capacity to divide. The unique ability of adult stem cells to maintain quiescence is crucial for life-long tissue homeostasis and regenerative capacity. Quiescence has long been viewed as an inactive state but recent studies have shown that it is in fact an actively regulated process and that adult stem cells are highly reactive to extrinsic stimuli. This has fuelled hopes of boosting the reactivation potential of adult stem cells to improve tissue function during ageing. In this Review, we provide a perspective of the quiescent state and discuss how quiescent adult stem cells transition into the cell cycle. We also discuss current challenges in the field, highlighting recent technical advances that could help overcome some of these challenges.

Automated summary

Quiescence is a cellular state where a cell is out of the cell cycle but can still divide, and adult stem cells' ability to maintain quiescence is vital for tissue homeostasis and regeneration. Recent studies show that quiescence is an actively regulated process, and adult stem cells are sensitive to external stimuli. This has raised hopes of enhancing the reactivation potential of adult stem cells for improving tissue function during aging.