Essentials of Stem Cell Biology

First developed as an accessible abridgement of the successful Handbook of Stem Cells, Essentials of Stem Cell Biology serves the needs of the evolving population of scientists, researchers, practitioners, and students embracing the latest advances in stem cells. Representing the combined effort of 7 editors and more than 200 scholars and scientists whose pioneering work has defined our understanding of stem cells, this book combines the prerequisites for a general understanding of adult and embryonic stem cells with a presentation by the world's experts of the latest research information about specific organ systems. From basic biology/mechanisms, early development, ectoderm, mesoderm, endoderm, and methods to the application of stem cells to specific human diseases, regulation and ethics, and patient perspectives, no topic in the field of stem cells is left uncovered.

Contributions by Nobel Laureates and leading international investigatorsIncludes two entirely new chapters devoted exclusively to induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells written by the scientists who made the breakthroughEdited by a world-renowned author and researcher to present a complete story of stem cells in research, in application, and as the subject of political debatePresented in full color with a glossary, highlighted terms, and bibliographic entries replacing references

Why Stem Cell Research?
A New Path-Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells
Embryonic Stem Cells Versus Adult Stem Cells
'Stemness': Definitions, Criteria and Standards
PART ONE: INTRODUCTION TO STEM CELLS
PART TWO: BASIC BIOLOGY/MECHANISMS
PART THREE: TISSUE AND ORGAN DEVELOPMENT
PART FOUR: METHODS
PART FIVE: APPLICATIONS
PART SIX: REGULATION AND ETHICS