Stem Cells

Understanding stem cells at the molecular level is essential to understanding their behaviour in a physiological context. This volume in our acclaimed Novartis Foundation series features animated discussion from the world&#8217;s experts in this topic on the important ethical issues that are raised by research on stem cells. They review the various regulatory regimes, which apply in different countries &#8211; a key factor in determining where future stem cell research is carried out. <p> Potential clinical applications covered in the book include the production of cardiomyocytes to replace damaged heart tissue, the production of insulin-producing cells for patients with diabetes, and the generation of neurons for the treatment of patients with Parkinson&#8217;s disease or spinal cord injury. Particular attention is paid to the factors that maintain stem cells in a pluripotent state or which drive them to create differentiated and lineage-committed cells <i>in vitro</i> and <i>in vivo</i>.&#160; Nuclear reprogramming, the process by which a nucleus acquires developmental potential, is covered here as well. It is relevant to stem cell research generally, and also to research on the cloning of animals by nuclear transfer.&#160; <p> This book is an essential purchase for all those engaged in stem cell research, whether in the laboratory, the clinic or the regulatory authorities. <p> <b>From the reviews:</b> <p> <i>"...this book provides: a comprehensive overview of current issues in stem cell research, with contributions from leading figures..."</i>&#160;BRITISH SOCIETY OF CELL BIOLOGY