Human Embryonic Stem Cells (PDF)

With this valuable practical guide, three members of the Harvard
Stem Cell Institute have compiled and edited the definite handbook
for the exciting new field of human embryonic stem cell research.
The editors have gathered protocols from scientists with extensive
reputation and expertise, describing and comparing currently used
techniques for the culture of human stem cells and discussing the
strengths and weaknesses of the different approaches.

Human Embryonic Stem Cells: The Practical
Handbook contains the first centralised collection of
methods used in human embryonic stem cell biology. The book covers
the derivation of human stem cell lines, the obtaining of cells
from human stem cell banks, the culturing and characterisation of
the cells, and the differentiation of the cells in vitro and
in vivo. Lastly, almost all of these protocols can also be
used for analyzing and manipulating induced pluripotency iPS stem
cells. This allows an even greater number of opportunities for
those interested in purusing work in pluripotent stem cells,
disease modelling, and other aspects of basic regenerative medicine
research.

The novel and useful focus of this book sets it apart from other
available books:

* Compares and evaluates the protocols used in leading
laboratories working on human embryonic stem cells

* Centred solely on practical protocols for human (not mouse)
embryonic stem cell research

* Includes extensive troubleshooting sections

* Addresses the different proclivities and behaviours of
individual human embryonic cell lines

* Contains techniques currently known only to a small number of
specialised laboratories worldwide

This handbook represents an essential source of up-to-date
practical information for all cell and developmental biologists
working with human embryonic stem cells or wishing to enter the
field. It is also essential reading for clinical researchers
in areas such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and neurological
diseases.

Praise from the reviews:

"...a highly readable and useful book... A notable
feature of the book is its air of openness and honesty... This
book... will help many to navigate the uncharted waters of
human embryonic stem cell biology." BRITISH SOCIETY FOR CELL
BIOLOGY

"... the imaginative solutions in this book can inspire us to
get past our most frustrating limitations." CELL STEM CELL

"... the richness in the details of each protocol presented
will certainly encourage more scientists to begin studies of Human
pluripotent stem cells..." REGENERATIVE MEDICINE

"In this fast-moving field, this [handbook] will help drive
advances of more and more researchers."
DIFFERENTIATION

"...a valuable resource for seasoned and novice
researchers... an excellent addition to the reference collection of
any medical library or research laboratory." THE AMERICAN
MEDICAL ASSOCIATION