We isolated a highly purified population of mouse limbal stem cells. These cells expressed immunosuppressive and immunoregulatory properties.
In addition, limbal stem cells had a high expression of genes for the anti-apoptotic molecules Bcl-1, XIAP and Survivin and for Fas ligand, and displayed an enhanced resistence to the apoptosis-inducing agents and to cell-mediated immunity. The results thus showed novel undescribed properties of adult stem cells.
These immunoregulatory and self-protecting properties of adult tissue specific stem cells can be responsible for protection of stem cells which have a vital role in reparation and regeneration of tissues and organs.