Medium is the message for stem cells in search of identities: Common culturing surface shown to change fate of stem cells

Source: University of Florida
Posted: July 5, 2006

Summary:

Embryonic stem cells, valuable because of their potential to become any kind of cell in the body, acquire their identities in part by interacting with their surroundings — even when they are outside of the body in a laboratory dish, University of Florida scientists report. The findings may one day help scientists create laboratory environments to grow specialized cells that can be transplanted intopatients to treat epilepsy, Parkinson’s, Huntington’s and Alzheimer’s diseases or other brain disorders.

Commentary: Mabe this finding will accelerate the creation of specialized stem cells that can be translated into effective treatments taliored for specfic diseases.