Abstract
Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) serve a pivotal role in the hematopoietic niche. The present study collected bone marrow samples from individuals across various age groups to investigate the biological characteristics of MSCs. By modifying the bone marrow microenvironment through co‑culture techniques, changes in the stemness of MSCs were examined. An in vitro hematopoietic co‑culture system was established to simulate the impact of MSCs on hematopoietic stem cells. The results demonstrated that the mode of cell‑to‑cell contact among stem cells is more influential in shaping bone marrow function compared with the effects of aging on these stem cells. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that MSCs serve as essential mediators, with their growth variations being both a consequence and a cause of changes in the bone marrow microenvironment. Furthermore, the decline in hematopoietic function observed in the elderly is a manifestation of this phenomenon. Data from the present study suggest that targeting MSCs is essential for enhancing bone marrow function and improving the outcomes of bone marrow transplantation.