- Haematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) develop into terminally differentiated myeloid and lymphoid cells through intermediate progenitor cells.
- The lineage of haematopoietic cells has been extensively studied using flow cytometryand traditional transplantation techniques.
- The precursors of fully differentiated blood cells have intermediate properties between them and the HSC Developmental potential becomes increasingly restricted as blood cells complete their development.
- The self-renewal of HSCs is a highly regulated process that provides a continuous source of blood cells in adult humans.
- Cytokines such as interferon-a and granulocyte–macrophage colony-stimulating factor provide signals to HSCs to proliferate and differentiate.
- Transcription factors are also vital in the regulation of haematopoiesis.