The process of making new blood cells starts with a signal that more blood cells are needed. This signal is received by the hematopoietic stem cells causing the stem cells to divide by mitosis. This creates more stem cells that can then differentiate into the types of cells that are needed while also retaining some stem cells in the bone marrow so that a supply of HSCs is maintained.
Differentiation is the process in which unspecialized or immature cells undergo changes to become more specialized and take on specific functions and characteristics. During differentiation, cells acquire unique structures, functions, and features that enable them to perform specific roles in the body. Differentiation is tightly regulated by various signaling molecules and genetic factors that control the expression of specific genes in the cell. While all body cells - except red blood cells - contain the same DNA, different types of cells are different because they have different combinations of genes turned on and off. |
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You can model hematopoiesis using some common school supplies. Watch the video to the left to be walked through this activity or click on the button above and work through it on your own.
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