A marker for mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) is provided, comprising an integrin alpha 10 chain and/or an integrin alpha 11 chain expressed on the cell surface of or intracellular in a MSC. The marker is used in methods for identification of mammalian MSC and in methods for isolation of MSC. Also included are isolated cellular populations of mammalian MSC and a cellular composition comprising the latter. Moreover, uses of said marker for isolation, modulation and identification mammalian MSC are provided.