Molecular Modulation of Fetal Liver Hematopoietic Stem Cell Mobilization into Fetal Bone Marrow in Mice

Figure 3

Endochondral ossification and vessel formation are required for lodgment of fetal liver HSC into the fetal bone marrow. Consistent levels of VEGF benefit vascularization in the fetal bone via binding with Flt-1 and Flk-1 receptors in endothelial cells. Vascularization in the fetal bone provides nutrition and aid niche formation. Loss of Osterix and collagen X negatively affects fetal liver HSC mobilization into the bone marrow through disrupting endochondral ossification.