The muscle stem cell niche: regulation of satellite cells during regeneration.

Satellite cells are considered to be adult skeletal muscle stem cells. Their ability to regenerate large muscle defects is highly dependent on their specific niche. When these cells are cultured in vitro, the loss of this niche leads to a loss of proliferative capacity and defective regeneration when implanted back into a muscle defect. The most important aspects of the niche will be discussed--in particular, the basement membrane, the niche's mechanical properties, its supporting cells, and the influence these features have on satellite cell activation, proliferation, and differentiation. Understanding more about the control of these satellite cell activities by the niche will facilitate their recruitment and effective deployment for regenerative medicine.