Stem Cells in the Respiratory System

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This exploration delves into the dynamic field of stem cell research, focusing on their potential role in addressing physiological stress and lung injury. Leading researchers review recent ideas on utilizing local, endogenous, and exogenous progenitor/stem cells for lung injury prevention and treatment. The lungs, among the most complex organs, contain at least 40 differentiated cell lineages, with the entire blood supply passing through their alveolar units for oxygenation. This complexity, combined with their interaction with the external environment, renders the lungs highly susceptible to various injuries and infections, leading to intricate repair mechanisms. Stem cells, due to their multipotentiality and the lung's rapid cell turnover, are considered a promising alternative for cell-based therapies in lung injuries. Despite the controversies surrounding stem cell research, interest in local and endogenous stem cells in the lung is increasing. This timely work includes chapters on topics such as the use of mesenchymal stem cells in lung repair and the impact of physical activity on stem and progenitor cell mobilization. It represents a significant contribution from leading investigators and is essential reading for those interested in this evolving subject.