This volume highlights recent advances using iPS cells in disease modeling and medical applications along with new technologies that enhance the power of iPS cells. While the discovery of iPS cells has provided excellent opportunities for developing models of human diseases, platforms for drug discovery and cell therapies, iPS cell technology still faces many challenges. Presenting the latest advances in this rapidly evolving research area, this book is intended to widen the community of researchers and clinicians interested in the exciting field of iPS cells.

A discussion of all the key issues in the use of human pluripotent stem cells for treating degenerative diseases or for replacing tissues lost from trauma. On the practical side, the topics range from the problems of deriving human embryonic stem cells and driving their differentiation along specific lineages, regulating their development into mature cells, and bringing stem cell therapy to clinical trials. Regulatory issues are addressed in discussions of the ethical debate surrounding the derivation of human embryonic stem cells and the current policies governing their use in the United States and abroad, including the rules and conditions regulating federal funding and questions of intellectual property.

This volume presents the proceedings of the International Conference on Medical and Biological Engineering held from 16 to 18 March 2017 in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina. Focusing on the theme of ‘Pursuing innovation. Shaping the future’, it highlights the latest advancements in Biomedical Engineering and also presents the latest findings, innovative solutions and emerging challenges in this field. Topics include: - Biomedical Signal Processing - Biomedical Imaging and Image Processing - Biosensors and Bioinstrumentation - Bio-Micro/Nano Technologies - Biomaterials - Biomechanics, Robotics and Minimally Invasive Surgery - Cardiovascular, Respiratory and Endocrine Systems Engineering - Neural and Rehabilitation Engineering - Molecular, Cellular and Tissue Engineering - Bioinformatics and Computational Biology - Clinical Engineering and Health Technology Assessment - Health Informatics, E-Health and Telemedicine - Biomedical Engineering Education - Pharmaceutical Engineering

Stem cell science has the potential to impact human reproductive medicine significantly - cutting edge technologies allow the production and regeneration of viable gametes from human stem cells offering potential to preciously infertile patients. Written by leading experts in the field Stem Cells in Reproductive Medicine brings together chapters on the genetics and epigenetics of both the male and female gametes as well as advice on the production and regeneration of gene cells in men and women, trophoblasts and endometrium from human embryonic and adult stem cells. Although focussing mainly on the practical elements of the use of stem cells in reproductive medicine, the book also contains a section on new developments in stem cell research. The book is essential reading for reproductive medicine clinicians, gynecologists and embryologists who want to keep abreast of practical developments in this rapidly developing field.

Stem Cells and Biomaterials for Regenerative Medicine addresses the urgent need for a compact source of information on both the cellular and biomaterial aspects of regenerative medicine. By developing a mutual understanding between three separately functioning areas of science—medicine, the latest technology, and clinical economics—the volume encourages interdisciplinary relationships that will lead to solutions for the significant challenges faced by today's regenerative medicine. Users will find sections on the homeostatic balance created by apoptosis and proliferating tissue stem cells, the naturally regenerative capacities of various tissue types, the potential regenerative benefits of iPS-generation, various differentiation protocols, and more. Written in easily accessbile language, this volume is appropriate for any professional or medical staff looking to expand their knowledge with regard to stem cells and regenerative medicine. - Arms readers with key information on tissue engineering, artificial organs and biomaterials, while using broadly accessible language - Provides broad introduction to, and examples of, various types of stem cells, core concepts of regenerative medicine, biomaterials, nanotechnology and nanomaterials, somatic cell transdyferentiation, and more - Edited and authored by researchers with expertise in regenerative medicine, (cancer) stem cells, biomaterials, genetics and nanomaterials

Brain diseases can have a large impact on patients and society, and treatment is often not available. A new approach in which somatic cells are reprogrammed into induced pluripotent cells (iPS cells) is a significant breakthrough for regenerative medicine. This promises patient-specific tissue for replacement therapies, as well as disease-specific cells for developmental modeling and drug treatment screening. However, this method faces issues of low reprogramming efficiency, and poorly defined criteria for determining the conversion of one cell type to another. Cells contain epigenetic “memories” of what they were that can affect reprogramming. This book discusses the various methods to reprogram cells, the control and determination of cell identity, the epigenetic models that have emerged and the application of iPS cell therapy for brain diseases, in particular Parkinson’s disease and Vanishing White Matter (VWM).​

Advances in Stem Cell Research discusses recent advances in stem cell science, including therapeutic applications. This volume covers such topics as biomanufacturing iPS cells for therapeutic applications, techniques for controlling stem cell fate decisions, as well as current basic research in such areas as germ line stem cells, genomics and proteomics in stem cell research. It is a useful book for biology and clinical scientists, especially young investigators and stem cell biology students who are newly entering the world of stem cells research. The editors hope that the new knowledge and research outlined in this book will help contribute to new therapies for a wide variety of diseases that presently afflict humanity.

Much research has focused on the basic cellular and molecular biological aspects of stem cells. Much of this research has been fueled by their potential for use in regenerative medicine applications, which has in turn spurred growing numbers of translational and clinical studies. However, more work is needed if the potential is to be realized for improvement of the lives and well-being of patients with numerous diseases and conditions. This book series 'Cell Biology and Translational Medicine (CBTMED)' as part of SpringerNature’s longstanding and very successful Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology book series, has the goal to accelerate advances by timely information exchange. Emerging areas of regenerative medicine and translational aspects of stem cells are covered in each volume. Outstanding researchers are recruited to highlight developments and remaining challenges in both the basic research and clinical arenas. This current book is the sixth volume of a continuing series.

Human pluripotent stem cells such as human embryonic stem cells (hESC) and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) with their unique developmental plasticity hold immense potential as cellular models for drug discovery and in regenerative medicine as a source for cell replacement. While hESC are derived from a developing embryo, iPSC are generated with forced expression of key transcription factors to convert adult somatic cells to ESC-like cells, a process termed reprogramming. Using iPSC overcomes ethical issues concerning the use of developing embryos and it can be generated from patient-specific or disease-specific cells for downstream applications. Pluripotent Stem Cells: Methods and Protocols highlights the best methods and systems for the entire work flow. Divided into four convenient sections, topics include a focus on producing iPSC from diverse somatic sources, media systems for expanding ESC and iPSC with detailed protocols for directed differentiation into specific lineages, commonly used cellular and molecular characterization methods , and the potential application of labeled stem cells with specific methods for cloning, gene delivery and cell engineering. Written in the successful Methods in Molecular BiologyTM series format, chapters include introductions to their respective topics, lists of the necessary materials and reagents, step-by-step, readily reproducible protocols, and notes on troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls. Authoritative and easily accessible, Pluripotent Stem Cells: Methods and Protocols seeks to serve both professionals and novices with its well-honed methodologies in an effort to further our knowledge of this essential cellular feature.