A test of the stochastic theory of stem cell differentiation.
Stochastic theories of stem cell renewal are shown to predict turnover of intestinal crypts. While I found ample evidence of production of new crypts from direct in vivo studies in adult mice, I failed to find evidence of crypt loss. Thus, it would appear that the simple stochastic models may not provide an adequate theory of control of intestinal stem cell function.
D000818:Animals; D002454:Cell Differentiation; D007583:Jejunum / Q000166:cytology*; D008297:Male; D051379:Mice; D008954:Models, Biological; D013234:Stem Cells / Q000166:cytology*; D013269:Stochastic Processes; D014741:Video Recording