LK cells are a type of hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) found in the bone marrow of mice. They are characterized by their low expression of the c-Kit protein and their enrichment for Sca-1+ cells. LK cells are distinct from LSK cells, which are also HSCs but express higher levels of c-Kit and are enriched for CD48+, CD71+, and CD150+ cells.
LK cells have been shown to play a role in hematopoiesis, the process by which blood cells are formed. They are thought to be progenitors of various blood cell lineages, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.
Here are some key characteristics of LK cells:
- Low c-Kit expression: This distinguishes them from LSK cells, which have high c-Kit expression.
- Sca-1+ enrichment: They are enriched for Sca-1+ cells, a marker of HSCs.
- Progenitor role in hematopoiesis: They are thought to be progenitors of various blood cell lineages.
Practical Insights:
- LK cells are studied in research models to understand hematopoiesis and the development of blood cancers.
- Research on LK cells may lead to the development of new treatments for blood disorders.