Our group studies the biology of progenitor/stem cells in the adult nervous system. These cells reside in specific niches, from where they participate in the development, maintenance and repair of the neural tissue. The cellular and molecular contacts established within the niche, between the stem cells and the rest of the niche components, are essential for the normal functioning of neural stem cells. A disruption of these niche crosstalks could lead to disease conditions, due to a lack of regenerative capacity or to hyperproliferation within the niche. Our detailed studies on these neurogenic niches might contribute to an understanding of the mechanisms underlying tumorigenic growth within the nervous system.
