Hematopoietic Stem Cell Aging and Leukemia Transformation

Abstract

With aging, hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) have an impaired ability to regenerate, differentiate, and produce the entire repertoire of mature blood and immune cells. Due to dysfunctional hematopoiesis, the incidence of hematologic malignancies increases in elderly individuals. Here, we provide an update on HSC-intrinsic and HSC-extrinsic factors and processes recently discovered to contribute to functional decline of HSCs during aging. In addition, we discuss targets and timing of intervention approaches to maintain HSC function during aging and the extent to which these same targets may prevent or delay transformation to hematologic malignancies.