Figure 8

Model outlining the function of p63 and SMA stem/progenitor cells along the salivary gland epithelial cell hierarchy. (A) A schematic representation of the SMG. In adult glands, p63+ stem/progenitor cells maintain all the mature epithelial cell lineages (left panel). Conversely, SMA+ progenitor cells maintain the myoepithelial and ductal cell lineages in adult glands (right panel). (B) Proposed position of p63 and SMA in the salivary gland stem/progenitor cell hierarchy.