L18 Stem Cell Culture in Neurotoxicity Flashcards
Aims: To discuss the sources of stem cells and their validity for studies of neural development and developmental neurotoxicity. Outcomes: To be able to evaluate different stem cell models in use or under development and to evaluate their application in neurotoxicity studies.
What are stem cells?
Cells with the ability to self-renew and the ability to differentiate into the various cell types of the body.
What is the basis of stem cell therapy?
Potentila to aid in tissue repair strategies (e.g after injury or neurodegernative or cardiac disease).
What are the ethical controversies surrounding stem cells?
Not allowed in some countries.
Controversy due to foetal embryonic origin, despite ethical sourcing.
What are the four main categories of stem cells used?
Embryonic stem cells (ESCs)
Adult stem cells
Umbilical cord derived mesenchymal stem cells
Induced pluripotent stem cells
How are embryonic stem cells sourced?
From inner cell mass of blastocyst.
How are they usually cultured?
On top of a ‘feeder layer’, or in suspensions/spheres, or on ECM.
Are stem cells grown in serum free media or FBS containing?
Grown in serum free media, containing mitogens (EGF and FGF) to maintain self-renewing, non-diff. phenotype.
How can differentiation be induced for neuronal study?
Withdrawl of mitogens on an neural ECM coated surface.
What are some less ethically controversial stem cell approaches?
Human umbilical cord derived stem cells - from Wharton’s jelly. Obtained shortly after birth.
In defined media, with suitable ECM, MSCs can be produced from this.
What are induced pluripotent stem cells?
iPSCSs are adult stem cells that can be reprogrammed to become like embryonic stem cells.
Conclusions
