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An Introduction to Stem Cell Biology

Overview

Cells that can differentiate into a variety of cell types, known as stem cells, are at the center of one of the most exciting fields of science today. Stem cell biologists are working to understand the basic mechanisms that regulate how these cells function. These researchers are also interested in harnessing the remarkable potential of stem cells to treat human diseases.

Here, JoVE presents an introduction to the captivating world of stem cell biology. We begin with a timeline of landmark studies, from the first experimental evidence for hematopoietic stem cells in the 1960s, to more recent breakthroughs like induced pluripotent stem cells. Next, key questions about stem cell biology are introduced, for example: How do these cells maintain their unique ability to undergo self-renewal? This is followed by a discussion of some prominent methods used to answer these questions. Finally, several experiments are presented to demonstrate the use of stem cells in regenerative medicine.

Procedure

As their name implies, stem cells are the precursors from which many different cell types "stem." They are characterized by their potency, or ability to differentiate into cells from all three germ layers, as well as their renewability, or capacity to generate more stem cells. In hopes of advancing the fields of developmental biology and regenerative medicine, stem cell researchers are working to understand how these unique cells accomplish such a major feat.

This video covers major discoveries in the field of st

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Tags
Stem Cell BiologyStem CellsCell TypesPotencyDifferentiationRenewabilityDevelopmental BiologyRegenerative MedicineStem Cell ResearchersMajor DiscoveriesKey QuestionsMethodsApplicationsHistory Of Stem Cell ResearchHematopoietic Stem CellsSelf renewalMultipotent CellsPluripotent CellsEmbryonic Stem Cells

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0:00

Overview

0:58

A Brief History of Stem Cell Research

3:22

Key Questions in Stem Cell Biology

4:46

Prominent Methods

9:01

Applications

10:56

Summary

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