The distribution of cellular turnover in the human body

Nat Med. 2021 Jan;27(1):45-48. doi: 10.1038/s41591-020-01182-9. Epub 2021 Jan 11.

Abstract

We integrated ubiquity, mass and lifespan of all major cell types to achieve a comprehensive quantitative description of cellular turnover. We found a total cellular mass turnover of 80 ± 20 grams per day, dominated by blood cells and gut epithelial cells. In terms of cell numbers, close to 90% of the (0.33 ± 0.02) × 1012 cells per day turnover was blood cells.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Blood Cells / cytology*
  • Cellular Senescence
  • Epithelial Cells / cytology*
  • Humans