Stroma Cells

Stromal cells, or mesenchymal stromal cells, are differentiated cells found in abundance in bone marrow but can also be seen all around the body. Stromal cells can become the connective tissue cells of any organ, such as the endometrium, bone marrow, prostate, ovary, and lymph node. They are cells that support the function of the parenchymal cells of that organ. The most common stromal cells include fibroblasts and pericytes.

Stromal cells are an important part of the body's immune response and regulate inflammation through multiple pathways. They also aid in the differentiation of hematopoietic cells and the formation of necessary blood components. The interaction between stromal cells and tumor cells is known to play a key role in tumor growth and progression. Furthermore, by regulating local cytokine networks, bone marrow stromal cells have been described to be involved in hematopoiesis and inflammatory processes in humans.