title: Population heterogeneity among cells of the megakaryocyte lineage.
abstract: Understanding the developmental steps in megakaryocyte differentiation requires information regarding the microenvironmental influences which direct or permit the growth and differentiation of these cells. The megakaryocyte microenvironment, like other lineages, is a complex structure comprised of the various megakaryocytic cells, the extracellular matrix (ECM) surrounding them, and the hematopoietic stromal cells which elaborate both growth factors and ECM. As a result, definition of the minimal essential requirements for megakaryocyte development is difficult. The intricacies of megakaryocyte development are further complicated by the cellular heterogeneity of both mature megakaryocytes and their precursors, as well as a differential responsiveness of these cells to hematopoietic growth factors. This review focuses on defining the various subpopulations of megakaryocytic cells and examining their functional distinctions and in vitro responsiveness to various stimuli.
authors.affiliation: Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor 48109.
authors.forename: M W
authors.initials: MW
authors.lastname: Long
mesh_terms: D002454:Cell Differentiation / Q000187:drug effects; D006410:Hematopoiesis / Q000187:drug effects; D016298:Hematopoietic Cell Growth Factors / Q000494:pharmacology; D006412:Hematopoietic Stem Cells / Q000166:cytology / Q000187:drug effects; D006801:Humans; D066298:In Vitro Techniques; D008533:Megakaryocytes / Q000166:cytology* / Q000187:drug effects
chemical_list: D016298:Hematopoietic Cell Growth Factors