Tuft cells promote human intestinal epithelium regeneration as reserve stem cells after irradiation.

Intestinal epithelium regeneration is crucial for homeostatic maintenance of the intestinal functions. A recent study published in Nature uncovers tuft cells as an unexpected key player in the regenerative process. Human tuft cells, traditionally recognized for their involvement in immune defense and pathogen protection, were found to exhibit stem cell-like properties following radiation-induced injury. These cells not only resist damage but also have the ability to generate functional stem cells, promoting the repair of the intestinal epithelium. This finding suggests that tuft cells may function as a reserve pool of stem cells, essential for efficient intestinal regeneration after injury.