In Vivo Genetic Strategies for the Specific Lineage Tracing of Stem Cells

Background: Characterization of the fate changes of stem cells is essential to understand the roles of certain stem cells both during development and in diseases, such as cancer. In the past two decades, more and more importance has been paid to the studies of in vivo lineage tracing, because they could authentically reveal the differentiation, migration and even proliferation of stem cells. However, specific genetic tools have only been developed until recently. Objective: To summarize the progresses of genetic tools for specific lineage tracing with emphasis on their applications in investigating the stem cell niche signals. Results: Three major genetic strategies have been reviewed according to the development of technique, particularly the advantages and disadvantages of individual methods. Conclusion: In vivo specific lineage tracing of stem cells could be achieved by comprehensive application of multiple genetic tools.