Abstract
BACKGROUND: Nestin is an intermediate filament first reported in neuroepithelial stem cells. Nestin expression could be found in a variety of tissues throughout all systems of the body, especially during tissue development and tissue regeneration processes. AIM OF REVIEW: This review aimed to summarize and discuss current studies on the distribution, contribution and regulation of nestin(+) cells in different systems of the body, to discuss the feasibility ofusing nestin as a marker of multilineage stem/progenitor cells, and better understand the potential roles of nestin(+) cells in tissue development, regeneration and pathological processes. KEY SCIENTIFIC CONCEPTS OF REVIEW: This review highlights the potential of nestin as a marker of multilineage stem/progenitor cells, and as a key factor in tissue development and tissue regeneration. The article discussed the current findings, limitations, and potential clinical implications or applications of nestin(+) cells. Additionally, it included the relationship of nestin(+) cells to other cell populations. We propose potential future research directions to encourage further investigation in the field.