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

This open access textbook leads the reader from basic concepts of chromatin structure and function and RNA mechanisms to the understanding of epigenetics, imprinting, regeneration and reprogramming. The textbook treats epigenetic phenomena in animals, as well as plants. Written by four internationally known experts and senior lecturers in this field, it provides a valuable tool for Master- and PhD- students who need to comprehend the principles of epigenetics, or wish to gain a deeper knowledge in this field. After reading this book, the student will: Have an understanding of the basic toolbox of epigenetic regulation Know how genetic and epigenetic information layers are interconnected Be able to explain complex epigenetic phenomena by understanding the structures and principles of the underlying molecular mechanisms Understand how misregulated epigenetic mechanisms can lead to disease

The term `transdifferentiation' is used to describe `metamorphosis' of one fully developed cell type into another. There has been much scepticism about the validity of this concept. This book examines the experimental evidence and aims to settle the dispute.

Molecular Cell Biology of the Growth and Differentiation of Plant Cells encompasses cell division, cell enlargement and differentiation; which is the cellular basis of plant growth and development. Understanding these developmental processes is fundamental for improving plant growth and the production of special plant products, as well as contributing to biological understanding. The dynamics of cells and cellular organelles are considered in the context of growth and differentiation, made possible particularly by advances in molecular genetics and the visualization of organelles using molecular probes. There is now a much clearer understanding of these basic plant processes of cell division, cell enlargement and differentiation. Each chapter provides a current and conceptual view in the context of the cell cycle (6 chapters), cell enlargement (5 chapters) or cell differentiation (9 chapters). The book provides state of the art knowledge (and open questions) set out in a framework that provides a long term reference point. The book is targeted at plant cell biologists, molecular biologists, plant physiologists and biochemists, developmental biologists and those interested in plant growth and development. The book is suitable for those already in the field, plant scientists entering the field and graduate students.

Scientific Principles of Adipose Stem Cells provides readers with in-depth and expert knowledge on adipose stem cells, their developmental biologic origins, foundational research on ASC signaling mechanisms and immunomodulatory properties, and clinical insights into applications in regenerative medicine. Topics covered include basic adipose stem cell developmental biology and mechanisms of regulating self-renewal and activation in the stem cell niche, important methods for isolation and characterizing ASCs, and data on the impact on human demographics (age, sex, BMI) on ASC phenotype. A section devoted to ASC biology, ASCs for stem cell therapy and regenerative medicine, and ASCs in tissue engineering applications are also included. The book is written for scientists and clinicians who are broadly familiar with stem cells and basic cell biology principles and those seeking advanced information on adipose stem cells. - Coverage of basic adipose stem cell developmental biology (maturation process during embryogenesis) and mechanisms of regulating self-renewal and activation in the stem cell niche - Includes important methods for isolation and characterizing ASCs, as well as known data any impact of human demographics (age, sex, BMI) on ASC phenotype - An entire section dedicated to ASC biology, additional sections will be devoted to ASCs for stem cell therapy and regenerative medicine, as well as ASCs in tissue engineering applications

Much of our knowledge of stem cells has been inferred from studies of remarkable few species. The ability to manipulate stem cells in “model” organisms such as the mouse and a few other vertebrate species has driven our understanding of basic biology of stem cells. The power and efficiency of studying model organisms, however, comes at a cost since a few species, obviously, do not reflect nature ́s true diversity. Unfortunately, although all multicellular organisms seem to rely on stem cells, and although this seems to be a question of key importance for understanding the evolution of animal life, little is known about stem cells in early-branching taxa. “Stem Cells: From Hydra to Man” illustrates that there is more than human and mouse stem cells to learn from. Reflecting an enormous growth in the knowledge of stem cells in various organisms, the book presents the conceptual language and the nature of questions, as well as a summary of the advances in our understanding of stem cells from a comparative point of view that has resulted from the development of new technology and the development of novel model organisms over the past few decades. As such this book is largely a horizon analysis of a frontier rather than a retrospective. It presents an integrative approach to animal stem cells and covers the major contributions, tools and trends in a newly emerging field: comparative stem cell biology.