very small embryonic-like stem cells

Very small embryonic-like stem cells (VSELs) are a rare population of quiescent, pluripotent stem cells found in adult tissues such as bone marrow, peripheral blood, and umbilical cord blood. Characterized by their exceptionally small size (3–5 μm) and a distinct immunophenotype (typically CD34+/Lin-/CD45- or CD133+/Lin-/CD45-), they express key pluripotency markers including OCT4, SOX2, and NANOG. VSELs are hypothesized to be epiblast-derived cells deposited during early embryogenesis that persist in adult organs to facilitate tissue repair and maintain homeostasis. In regenerative medicine, they are investigated for their ability to home to injured tissues—primarily via the SDF-1/CXCR4 chemotactic axis—and differentiate into various somatic cell types without the ethical concerns or teratoma risks associated with embryonic stem cells. While clinical interest has spanned conditions such as premature ovarian failure, erectile dysfunction, and myocardial repair, several early-phase trials have been withdrawn, and research continues to focus on their ex vivo expansion and role as potential cancer stem cell precursors when dysfunctional.

Other names

VSELvery small embryonic-like cellsautologous very small embryonic-like stem cells