Background Embryonic stem (ES) cells have unlimited proliferation potential, and can
differentiate into several cell types, which represent ideal sources for cell-based therapy.
This high-level proliferative ability is attributed to an unusual type of cell cycle. The Signaling
pathways that regulate the proliferation of ES cells are of great interest.
Methodology/Principal Findings In this study, we show that murine ES cells specifically
express brain natriuretic peptide (BNP), and its signaling is essential for ES cell proliferation …

Background Embryonic stem (ES) cells have the remarkable capacity to divide indefinitely
while retaining their wide range differentiation potential, and they represent a promising
source for cell transplantation therapies. Growth of ES cells requires a balance between
survival, proliferation and self-renewal signals. The signaling pathways that regulate the
proliferation of ES cells are of great interest. Brain natriuretic peptide (BNP), a member of
natriuretic peptide family, is produced predominately in the heart, and recently, we have …