Essentials Of Stem Cell Biology

First developed as an accessible abridgement of the successful Handbook of Stem Cells, Essentials of Stem Cell Biology serves the needs of the evolving population of scientists, researchers, practitioners and students that are embracing the latest advances in stem cells. Representing the combined effort of seven editors and more than 200 scholars and scientists whose pioneering work has defined our understanding of stem cells, this book combines the prerequisites for a general understanding of adult and embryonic stem cells with a presentation by the world's experts of the latest research information about specific organ systems. From basic biology/mechanisms, early development, ectoderm, mesoderm, endoderm, methods to application of stem cells to specific human diseases, regulation and ethics, and patient perspectives, no topic in the field of stem cells is left uncovered. Selected for inclusion in Doody's Core Titles 2013, an essential collection development tool for health sciences libraries Contributions by Nobel Laureates and leading international investigators Includes two entirely new chapters devoted exclusively to induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells written by the scientists who made the breakthrough Edited by a world-renowned author and researcher to present a complete story of stem cells in research, in application, and as the subject of political debate Presented in full color with glossary, highlighted terms, and bibliographic entries replacing references

This textbook describes the biology of different adult stem cell types and outlines the current level of knowledge in the field. It clearly explains the basics of hematopoietic, mesenchymal and cord blood stem cells and also covers induced pluripotent stem cells. Further, it includes a chapter on ethical aspects of human stem cell research, which promotes critical thinking and responsible handling of the material. Based on the international masters program Molecular and Developmental Stem Cell Biology taught at Ruhr-University Bochum and Tongji University Shanghai, the book is a valuable source for postdocs and researchers working with stems cells and also offers essential insights for physicians and dentists wishing to expand their knowledge. This textbook is a valuable complement to Concepts and Applications of Stem Cell Biology, also published in the Learning Materials in Biosciences textbook series.

This is a fast-moving field, and these detailed methods will help drive advances in stem cell research. The editors have hand selected step-by-step methods from researchers with extensive reputations and expertise.This volume, as part of the Reliable Lab Solutions series, delivers busy researchers a handy, time-saving source for the best methods and protocols in stem cells. Provides powerful research opportunities for those interested in perusing work in pluripotent stem cells, disease modeling, and other aspects of basic stem cell research Refines, organizes and updates popular methods from flagship series, Methods in Enzymology Highlights top downloads, enhanced with author tips and tricks and pitfalls to avoid

Introduces all of the essential cell biology and developmental biology background for the study of stem cells This book gives you all the important information you need to become a stem cell scientist. It covers the characterization of cells, genetic techniques for modifying cells and organisms, tissue culture technology, transplantation immunology, properties of pluripotent and tissue specific stem cells and, in particular, the relevant aspects of mammalian developmental biology. It dispels many misconceptions about stem cells—especially that they can be miracle cells that can cure all ills. The book puts emphasis on stem cell behavior in its biological context and on how to study it. Throughout, the approach is simple, direct, and logical, and evidence is given to support conclusions. Stem cell biology has huge potential for advancing therapies for many distressing and recalcitrant diseases, and its potential will be realized most quickly when as many people as possible have a good grounding in the science of stem cells. Content focused on the basic science underpinning stem cell biology Covers techniques of studying cell properties and cell lineage in vivo and in vitro Explains the basics of embryonic development and cell differentiation, as well as the essential cell biology processes of signaling, gene expression, and cell division Includes instructor resources such as further reading and figures for downloading Offers an online supplement summarizing current clinical applications of stem cells Written by a prominent leader in the field, The Science of Stem Cells is an ideal course book for advanced undergraduates or graduate students studying stem cell biology, regenerative medicine, tissue engineering, and other topics of science and biology.

This book is a unique guide to emerging stem cell technologies and the opportunities for their commercialisation. It provides in-depth analyses of the science, business, legal, and financing fundamentals of stem cell technologies, offering a holistic assessment of this emerging and dynamic segment of the field of regenerative medicine. • Reviews the very latest advances in the technology and business of stem cells used for therapy, research, and diagnostics • Identifies key challenges to the commercialisation of stem cell technology and avenues to overcome problems in the pipeline • Written by an expert team with extensive experience in the business, basic and applied science of stem cell research This comprehensive volume is essential reading for researchers in cell biology, biotechnology, regenerative medicine, and tissue engineering, including scientists and professionals, looking to enter commercial biotechnology fields.

Stem cells exist in different forms depending on their origin and purpose. They require a unique environment in order to survive, sustain and develop. Stem cells are divided into four categories, namely, embryonic stem cells (ESC), adult stem cells (ASC), induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC), and pathological stem cells (PSC). ESC and iPSC are two examples of true pluripotent stem cells. They have the ability for limitless self-renewal and can differentiate into all the specialized cell types of the body. These cells have a lot of potential applications in regenerative medicine and tissue engineering. Pluripotent stem cells hold the potential to transform treatment options for a wide variety of diseases and conditions. This book is a compilation of chapters that discuss the most vital concepts related to the biology of pluripotent stem cells. It is a valuable compilation of topics, ranging from the basic to the most complex advancements in this area of research. For all readers who are interested in stem cell biology, the studies included in this book will serve as an excellent guide to develop a comprehensive understanding.

This textbook will support graduate students with learning materials rich in the basic concepts of stem cell biology, in its most widespread and updated perspective. The chapters are conceived in a way for students to understand the meaning of pluripotency, the definition of embryonic stem cells and the formation of multicellular structures such as organoids together with the underlying principles of their epigenetic. This textbook also discusses adult stem cells and the potential use of these cells, in particular neural, mesenchymal, and several types of muscular cells, in biomedical research and clinical applications. This textbook represents a vital complement to the text on Essential Current Concepts of Stem Cell Biology, also published in the Learning Materials in Biosciences textbook series.

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), a type of adult stem cells, have attracted the attention of scientists and physicians alike due to their unique biological properties and potential for disease treatment. As stem cell research is complex and progressing rapidly, it is important that the experts in this field share their views and perspectives. This book, co-edited by leading global researchers, is divided into three major sections and covers a broad range of topics concerning MSCs during their transition from benchside to bedside. The book is intended for researchers and clinicians in the field of stem cells. Dr. Robert Chunhua Zhao, MD. Ph.D is Cheung Kong Professor of Stem Cell Biology, Professor of Cell Biology at the Institute of Basic Medical Sciences & School of Basic Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, China Director of Center for Tissue Engineering, PUMC Chief scientist of 973 program Regional Editor of Stem Cells and Development.

The topic of stem cells has a high profile in the media. We've made important advances in our scientific understanding, but despite this the clinical applications of stem cells are still in their infancy and most real stem cell therapy carried out today is some form of bone marrow transplantation. At the same time, a scandalous spread of unproven stem cell treatments by private clinics represents a serious problem, with treatments being offered which are backed by limited scientific rationale, and which are at best ineffective, and at worse harmful. This Very Short Introduction introduces stem cells, exploring what they are, and what scientists do with them. Introducing the different types of stem cells, Jonathan Slack explains how they can be used to treat diseases such as retinal degeneration, diabetes, Parkinson's disease, heart disease, and spinal trauma. He also discusses the important technique of bone marrow transplantation and some other types of current stem cell therapy, used for the treatment of blindness and of severe burns. Slack warns against fake stem cell treatments and discusses how to distinguish real from fake treatments. He also describes the latest scientific progress in the field, and looks forward to what we can expect to happen in the next few years Very Short Introductions: Brilliant, Sharp, Inspiring ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.