The human blood system--in particular the hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) or blood stem cell--has been extensively studied; however, the exact mechanics behind how an HSC undergoes self-renewal remains unclear. Self-renewal is the process by which an HSC grows and divides to create an exact replica of itself, as well as cells different from itself (i.e. one or more specific types of blood cells that cannot renew).

E2fs--a family of transcription factors responsible for helping turn genes 'on'--play central roles in controlling cell division, survival, and cancer. They can drive cell division and, if inappropriately activated, may trigger cell death, a protective mechanism against cancer development. Recent findings published in Nature co-led by TWRI's Dr. Rod Bremner turn two widely held notions--that E2fs are essential for division and can drive cell death--upside down.

This year's first issue of Net Results EXPRESS is filled with exciting new discoveries from the UHN Research community.