Abstract
Tissue engineering is a rapidly evolving field of research that has yet to fulfil its promise in the translation and potential application of adult stem cells in clinical practice. Recently, it has become apparent that specific adult stem cells are capable of transdifferentiation. The successful application of adult stem cells is thought to be central in creating truly biomimetic tissue. Although still most widely utilized, research suggests that in the future, bone marrow-derived stem cells may no longer be considered the most suitable candidates for use in tissue engineering. Independent studies have successfully engineered a range of tissues in vitro and in vivo using hair follicle- and adipose-derived stem cells. Owing to their potency, relative abundance and noninvasive extraction, these populations may be the most promising studied to date. This review aims to discuss these candidate adult stem cell populations in an attempt to assess the most promising avenues of research.
Financial & competing interests disclosure
The authors have no relevant affiliations or financial involvement with any organization or entity with a financial interest in or financial conflict with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript. This includes employment, consultancies, honoraria, stock ownership or options, expert testimony, grants or patents received or pending, or royalties.
No writing assistance was utilized in the production of this manuscript.