Age disparities in intestinal stem cell quantities: a possible explanation for preterm infant susceptibility to necrotizing enterocolitis

Murine study demonstrates age-dependent increases in Lgr5+ and Bmi1+ intestinal stem cell populations, with experimental NEC selectively depleting Lgr5+ cells while sparing Bmi1+ reserves. Findings suggest preterm infants' lower baseline stem cell counts may explain NEC susceptibility and support targeted therapies to preserve regenerative capacity.