The key factors involved in human embryonic stem cell differentiation and maintenance have not yet been defined in vitro. Also, the current hESC derivation techniques are inefficient. At the Center, we are constantly optimizing the stem cell culture conditions and finding more efficient ways to derive human embryonic stem cell lines that can be used to treat and cure diseases. To fulfill these goals, we are testing different growth factors, extracellular matrix proteins and other molecular factors to determine and define the conditions required for hESC maintenance and growth. We are also exploring and optimizing novel approaches to derive stem cell lines.
Faculty members working with human embryonic stem cells
Articles related to this topic
Klimanskaya, I., et al., 2006. Human embryonic stem cell lines derived from single blastomeres. Nature. 444, 481-5. Abstract »
Ludwig, T. E., et al., 2006. Derivaion of human embryonic stem cells in defined conditions. Nat Biotechnol. 24, 185-7. Abstract »
H9 hESCs stained with TRA-1-81, a stem cell surface marker.