This review article examines the intricate relationship between stem cells and the immune system, highlighting how stem cells protect themselves from infection and how immune cells regulate stem cell activity. It explores stem cell-specific defense mechanisms, such as antiviral RNA interference and the expression of interferon-stimulated genes, which differ from those in differentiated cells. The text further discusses the bidirectional communication between stem cells and immune cells at steady state and during injury, emphasizing the role of immune cells in orchestrating tissue repair. Finally, the article addresses the impact of inflammaging, or age-related chronic inflammation, on stem-immune crosstalk and its consequences for tissue repair and overall aging.

References:

• Poirier E Z. How stem cells respond to infection, inflammation and ageing[J]. Nature Reviews Immunology, 2025: 1-12.