FLI-1 switch enhances blood stem cell production

Researchers at Weill Cornell Medicine have identified a crucial molecular switch, FLI-1, that helps blood stem cells enter a regenerative state to produce new blood cells. This discovery could enhance the effectiveness of bone marrow transplants and gene therapies. The study, published in Nature Immunology, shows that activating FLI-1 in quiescent blood stem cells allows them to expand rapidly. This method could improve outcomes for patients with limited viable blood stem cells, especially those who have undergone chemotherapy or radiation. The team plans to further develop their modified mRNA-based approach to introduce FLI-1 in blood stem cells, aiming for future testing in human patients. This could lead to better treatments for various blood disorders.