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For the first time in the lab, researchers see stem cells take key step toward development

University of Illinois researchers develop new technique to induce mouse embryonic stem cells to form three distinct germ layers, a crucial step towards regenerative medicine. The study provides insights into the biological process controlling tissue development and opens doors for efficient organ generation.

Lost in translation?

Researchers investigate gene expression during Drosophila development, finding thousands of mRNAs translated differently and a protein kinase complex regulating translational changes. The study provides insights into the oocyte-to-embryo transition and its role in embryogenesis.

Brazilian researchers find human menstrual blood-derived cells 'feed' embryonic stem cells

Researchers have found that human menstrual blood-derived mesenchymal cells can replace animal-derived feeder systems in human embryonic stem cell culture, supporting their growth in an undifferentiated stage. This breakthrough could provide a new means of culturing ESCs for clinical purposes without potential xenocontamination.

Functional nerve cells from skin cells

The new method uses transcription factors to promote cell differentiation and maturation, producing nerve cells with functional characteristics similar to mature cells found in the body. This breakthrough could accelerate the development of new drugs and stem cell-based regenerative medicine for age-related diseases such as Parkinson's...

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalDevelopment·DateMay 21, 2014

One step closer to cell reprogramming

Scientists at the Centre for Genomic Regulation have made a breakthrough in understanding cell reprogramming by identifying the crucial role of the Wnt signaling pathway. By inhibiting this pathway, they increased the efficiency of the process and obtained more pluripotent cells.

SourceCenter for Genomic Regulation·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateMay 6, 2014

Stem cell findings may offer answers for some bladder defects and disease

Researchers at UC Davis successfully coax laboratory cultures of human stem cells into the specialized, unique cells needed to repair a patient's defective or diseased bladder. The breakthrough provides a pathway to regenerate replacement bladder tissue for patients whose bladders are too small or do not function properly.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalStem Cells Translational Medicine·DateMar 21, 2014

New cell line should accelerate embryonic stem cell research

Scientists at the University of Washington have successfully created a line of human embryonic stem cells that can develop into various tissues. The new 'naive' cells retain their natural ability to differentiate into all types of human cells without artificial genes, opening up possibilities for regenerative medicine and transplantation.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 13, 2014

New method increases supply of embryonic stem cells

A new method allows for large-scale generation of high-quality human embryonic stem cells from excess IVF embryos, increasing the supply for potential therapies. This breakthrough method enables production of stem cells without destroying embryos, making it a significant step forward for stem cell research.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 27, 2014

Rewiring stem cells

Researchers at the University of Cambridge have created a technique that can pinpoint the factors driving cell differentiation, including previously unidentified genes. The method uses haploid embryonic stem cells to uncover how cell differentiation works.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateJan 9, 2014

Large-scale erythrocyte production method established using erythrocyte progenitor cells

A Kyoto University research team developed a method to produce erythrocyte progenitor cells with almost unlimited replication ability in vitro. These cells were successfully differentiated into mature erythrocytes with oxygen-carrying capacity, showing potential for a reliable transfusion system.

New stem cells go back further

Researchers at the Weizmann Institute of Science have successfully created induced pluripotent stem cells (iPS cells) that can be kept in a pristine state, paving the way for growing transplant organs to order. The breakthrough enables the production of 'humanized' mouse models containing human-derived tissues.

USC researcher reveals how to better master stem cells' fate

Researchers at USC have identified a novel way of culturing human ESCs by focusing on the Wnt/beta-catenin signaling pathway. This discovery reveals the important role of Tfcp2l1 in communicating to ESCs that they should self-renew, offering promise for developing stem cell-based therapies for diseases such as Parkinson's and spinal co...

SourceUniversity of Southern California - Health Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 23, 2013

Stem cell reprogramming made easier

Researchers find removing MBD3 protein increases efficiency of stem cell reprogramming from 1% to 100%, allowing for faster production of cells for medical use. This breakthrough provides a deeper understanding of embryonic development and could advance treatment of various diseases.

Rethinking 'The Code'

The study reveals that the protein complex Mll2 is responsible for implementing activating histone marks on 'poised' genes, but its loss has little effect on developmental gene activation during differentiation. This suggests a more complex understanding of histone modification patterns in embryonic and cancer cells.

SourceStowers Institute for Medical Research·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateAug 11, 2013

Pluripotent stem cell-derived neurons may be a viable Parkinson's disease treatment

Researchers have successfully transplanted human embryonic stem cells into monkeys with Parkinson's disease, demonstrating robust survival and integration of the cells. The study found that the gene expression of dopamine-producing neurons was transient after transplantation, highlighting the need for further research to optimize cell ...