Chapter 23 - Embryonic stem cells

Abstract

Human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) have an unlimited capacity for self-renewal as well as the potential to differentiate into every cell type in the body. These characteristics make hESC an extremely attractive cell source for regenerative medicine; derivatives may be used to repair damaged tissue or replace specific cells lost due to disease. Numerous hESC-based therapies have shown promise in animal models, and several of them are now in human clinical trials. The generation of hESC lines and their various derivatives for cellular therapies, however, present unique challenges in terms of production, manufacturing, quality control, and safety.