Neural Commitment of Embryonic Stem Cells via Embryoid Bodies
Journal name: The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences
Original article title: Neural Commitment of Embryonic Stem Cells through the Formation of Embryoid Bodies (EBs)
The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences (MJMS) is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal published online at least six times a year. It covers all aspects of medical sciences and prioritizes high-quality research.
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Gao LIYANG, Syahril ABDULLAH, Rozita ROSLI, Norshariza NORDIN
The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences:
(A peer-reviewed, open-access journal)
Full text available for: Neural Commitment of Embryonic Stem Cells through the Formation of Embryoid Bodies (EBs)
Year: 2014
Copyright (license): CC BY 4.0
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Embryonic stem cells (ESCs) possess the unique ability to differentiate into all three primary germ layer-derived cells and are valuable tools for studying early embryonic development. The differentiation of ESCs is intricately regulated by a complex interplay of genes and signaling pathways. Various established protocols exist to direct this differentiation, generally categorized as either direct or indirect (spontaneous) differentiation. The indirect differentiation method is notably characterized by the formation of embryoid bodies (EBs), which serve as three-dimensional aggregates mimicking early embryonic structures while enabling researchers to explore cellular mechanisms involved in lineage specification, signaling effects, and to produce large populations of functional neurons.
Spontaneous Differentiation through Embryoid Bodies
One critical aspect of using EBs for neural differentiation lies in the ability of ESCs to aggregate and undergo spontaneous differentiation without external instructive cues. EBs are formed when ESCs are cultivated in suspension, enabling them to self-assemble into multicellular aggregates. This aggregation process is influenced by several factors—such as the density of ESCs, the material used for culturing, and various cell adhesion molecules like E-cadherin and β-catenin—which play crucial roles in the formation and subsequent maturation of EBs. Research has demonstrated that optimizing the size and quality of EBs can enhance differentiation efficiency and yield specific cell types, including neurons, making EBs essential for modeling neural development and studying pluripotent cell behavior.
Conclusion
This review underscores the significance of understanding the mechanisms behind spontaneous differentiation via EBs as valuable in vitro models for embryonic development. The 4−/4+ protocol exemplifies how EBs can be utilized for neural differentiation, emphasizing the role of retinoic acid in guiding the process. As research continues, these insights will aid in developing more refined methods for stem cell differentiation, potentially enhancing therapeutic applications in regenerative medicine. The knowledge gained from studying EBs not only contributes to our understanding of cell signaling pathways and pluripotency but also exemplifies the importance of mimicking embryonic development to explore stem cell biology effectively.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What are embryoid bodies (EBs) in stem cell research?
Embryoid bodies are multicellular 3D aggregates formed from embryonic stem cells (ESCs) during spontaneous differentiation, mimicking early embryonic development and leading to differentiation into various cell types, including neural cells.
What is the 4−/4+ protocol used for?
The 4−/4+ protocol is a widely used method in stem cell research to induce neuronal differentiation from embryoid bodies by initially allowing EBs to mature for four days, followed by exposure to retinoic acid.
How do embryoid bodies support stem cell research?
Embryoid bodies provide an in vitro model to study early embryonic development and neurogenesis, enabling researchers to explore cell signaling pathways, assess pluripotency, and investigate differentiation into specific cell types.
What factors influence the formation and differentiation of EBs?
The formation of EBs is influenced by cell density, culture conditions, and various signaling pathways, including those involving retinoic acid, Wnt, and bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs), which regulate ESC differentiation.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Neural Commitment of Embryonic Stem Cells via Embryoid Bodies”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Dish (Dis):
In the context of embryonic stem cell research, a 'dish' refers to a petri dish or similar vessel used for culturing cells. The choice of dish material can affect cell attachment and aggregation, which are crucial for the formation of embryoid bodies (EBs) necessary for neural differentiation processes in vitro.
2) Science (Scientific):
'Science' represents the systematic study of natural phenomena, including biology and developmental processes. In the context of this research, it underlines the importance of scientific inquiry in understanding stem cell behavior, differentiation protocols, and the mechanisms governing embryoid body formation and neural development.
3) Surface:
The 'surface' in the context of cell culture refers to the material composition of the dish or container where cells are grown. The surface properties greatly influence cell attachment, aggregation, and differentiation. Non-adherent surfaces are typically preferred for promoting embryoid body formation by preventing cells from sticking prematurely.
4) Hanging:
The 'hanging' method is a specific technique in cell culture where single-cell droplets are suspended from a lid in a petri dish to promote uniform embryoid body (EB) formation. This method allows for better control of EB size and differentiation while preventing unwanted attachment to the culture surface.
5) Quality:
'Quality' pertains to the characteristics that determine the success of embryoid body formation from embryonic stem cells. Factors such as size, shape, and morphology significantly influence the differentiation efficiency of stem cells into desired cell types, making the assessment of quality essential for effective neural differentiation protocols.
6) Study (Studying):
A 'study' refers to the detailed investigation undertaken to understand the mechanisms of embryonic stem cell differentiation and embryoid body formation. It encompasses experimental protocols, methodologies, and analyses that contribute to advancing knowledge in cellular biology and regenerative medicine, particularly in neural lineage specification.
7) Medium:
'Medium' refers to the culture solution in which cells are grown. The composition of the medium, including nutrients, growth factors, and signaling molecules, is critical for promoting cell viability and differentiation. In neural differentiation studies, specific additives, like retinoic acid, are incorporated to guide cell fate.
8) Table:
'Table' in this context may refer to the structured representation of data, results, or methodologies derived from the studies on embryonic stem cells. Tables are essential for organizing complex experimental results, allowing researchers to compare and analyze findings related to embryoid body characteristics and differentiation outcomes.
9) Beta:
'Beta' references specific proteins or signaling pathways involved in stem cell biology. For instance, beta-catenin is a key player in cell adhesion and Wnt signaling that influences cell fate decisions. Its role in embryoid body formation and differentiation pathways is critical for understanding neural development.
10) Line:
'Line' can refer to stem cell lines, which are cultures of stem cells that can divide and maintain their pluripotent state indefinitely. Establishing and characterizing stem cell lines is fundamental in regenerative medicine, allowing researchers to study differentiation mechanisms in a controlled environment.
11) Mason:
'Mason' likely refers to Dr. John Mason, whose contributions to the field of stem cell research provide valuable insights. Authors often acknowledge collaborators, mentors, or significant contributors within their work, emphasizing the collaborative nature of scientific inquiry and the importance of expert guidance in research projects.
12) Death:
'Death' in the context of stem cell research can pertain to programmed cell death (apoptosis), which is a natural process occurring during cell differentiation. Understanding how and when cells undergo death is vital for optimizing protocols for embryoid body formation and ensuring healthy differentiation into functional cell types.
13) Post:
'Post' may refer to post-differentiation processes in stem cell biology. It typically indicates the stage following initial stem cell differentiation where specific cellular roles and functions are acquired, shedding light on how stem cells can aid in tissue regeneration and disease modeling following therapeutic interventions.
14) Srivastava (Sri-vastava, Shrivastava, Shri-vastava):
'Shrivastava' likely refers to a researcher or author associated with this field of study. Recognition of contributors in publications underscores the collaborative effort required to advance scientific knowledge and develop innovative methodologies in stem cell research, particularly concerning differentiation and cellular behavior.
15) Medicine:
'Medicine' relates to the application of biological science in treating diseases and improving health. The study of embryonic stem cells and their differentiation into specific cell types holds great promise in regenerative medicine, potentially providing therapeutic options for disorders resulting from cellular damage or loss.
16) Humana:
'Humana' likely references a publisher or journal focused on human health and medical research. This reflects the importance of publishing findings in peer-reviewed forums to disseminate new insights about stem cells, differentiation protocols, and implications for health, thereby contributing to the body of medical knowledge.
17) Sharman (Sarma, Sharma, Sarman):
'Sharma' may refer to a researcher involved in the study of stem cells or their applications in regenerative medicine. Recognizing contributors signifies the collaborative nature of scientific research, emphasizing how different perspectives and expertise come together to enhance understanding and implement innovative solutions.
18) Dhara:
'Dhara' may refer to a researcher or co-author who has contributed to the studies on embryonic stem cells and their differentiation processes. Acknowledging collaborators is crucial in academia as it highlights teamwork in scientific discovery and the importance of shared expertise in advancing knowledge.
19) Valli:
'Valli' refers to a researcher contributing to the understanding of stem cell biology and differentiation protocols. Recognizing the work of researchers helps build a comprehensive view of the knowledge landscape and the collaborative nature of scientific exploration in areas like neural differentiation and development.
20) Bhung:
'Bhung' may refer to an author who contributed insights or methods related to embryonic stem cell research. Recognition of contributors in scientific literature promotes collaboration and highlights the collective effort necessary for advancing research, particularly in complex fields like regenerative medicine and differentiation studies.
21) Masi (Mashi):
'Masi' likely refers to a researcher contributing to the field of stem cell research. Acknowledging authors helps situate their work within the broader scientific community, fostering collaboration and advancing collective understanding of topics related to embryonic stem cell differentiation and its therapeutic implications.
22) Shan (San):
'Shan' likely references a researcher involved in embryonic stem cell studies. Recognition of contributors emphasizes the collaborative spirit inherent in scientific inquiry, underscoring the importance of multidisciplinary approaches to unravel the complexities of stem cell behavior, differentiation protocols, and their future applications.
23) Dang:
'Dang' is likely another researcher who has contributed to studies in the field of embryonic stem cell differentiation. Recognizing contributions highlights collaboration and the integration of diverse expertise, which is key to advancing research in areas like neural differentiation and regenerative medicine.
24) Life:
'Life' within the context of stem cell research signifies the biological processes and systems that sustain living organisms. Studies involving embryonic stem cells aim to explore the fundamental principles governing development, differentiation, and cellular identity, potentially contributing to breakthroughs in biology and medicine.
25) Surrounding:
'Surrounding' refers to the environmental conditions or external factors influencing cell behavior in a culture. The surrounding environment significantly impacts how stem cells aggregate, differentiate, and respond to stimuli, making it critical to control these factors in studies on embryoid body formation and differentiation.
26) Container:
'Container' relates to the physical vessels, such as culture dishes or wells, where cell cultures are maintained. The choice of container affects cell growth conditions, including surface properties and volume, which are crucial for promoting successful embryoid body formation and subsequent differentiation into specialized cell types.
27) Activity:
'Activity' pertains to the biological functions of cells, such as division, differentiation, and signaling. In stem cell studies, analyzing cellular activity provides insights into the dynamics of stem cell behavior, responses to environmental cues, and efficacy of differentiation protocols towards generating specific cell lineages.
28) Dividing:
'Dividing' indicates the process of cell division, a fundamental aspect of cellular growth and development. In embryonic stem cell research, understanding how and when cells divide is critical for optimizing differentiation protocols and ensuring the formation of desired cell types, such as neurons.
29) Language:
'Language' in this context may refer to the terminology and concepts used in scientific communication. Clear and precise language is essential for conveying complex ideas in research, ensuring that findings on embryonic stem cells and neural differentiation are accessible to a wider audience within the scientific community.
30) Gold (Golden):
'Golden' can refer to the 'golden rules' of embryonic stem cell research, which are important guidelines or principles. These rules aid researchers in assessing pluripotency or in optimizing differentiation methods, establishing standards for evaluating cell lines or experimental approaches within regenerative medicine.
31) Putra:
'Putra' likely refers to a research institution, such as Universiti Putra Malaysia, associated with the study of embryonic stem cells. Recognizing institutions emphasizes the collaborative nature of research, showcasing how academic environments contribute to advancements in stem cell research and its implications for medicine.
32) Glass:
'Glass' refers to the material used in laboratory equipment such as petri dishes, slides, or culture vessels. The choice of glass, which can provide a clear view of cell growth and aggregation, is essential for facilitating observation and ensuring proper conditions for embryoid body formation.
33) Rules:
'Rules' refer to established protocols and guidelines in scientific research. In embryonic stem cell studies, adherence to certain rules ensures consistency, success in generating desired outcomes in differentiation processes, and the trustworthy interpretation of results that contribute to understanding developmental biology.
34) Drug:
'Drug' in this context may relate to pharmaceutical agents or compounds used in differentiation protocols to influence stem cell fate. Understanding the effects of specific drugs, such as retinoic acid, is crucial for optimizing differentiation protocols and enhancing the efficiency of generating specific cell types in vitro.
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Neural Commitment of Embryonic Stem Cells via Embryoid Bodies’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Early stage, Embryo development, Therapeutic potential, Extracellular matrix, In vitro, Fibroblast Growth Factor, Self-renewal, Embryogenesis, Wnt signaling pathway, In vitro model, Signaling pathways, Cell types, Cell-cell adhesion molecules, Growth factor, Cell adhesion, Cell fate, Embryoid bodies, Neural precursor cells, Pluripotent Stem Cells, Cell signaling pathway, Pluripotent Cells, Stem cell, Stem cell differentiation, Human embryonic stem cell, Bone morphogenetic protein, Gene expression regulation, Retinoic acid, Neural differentiation, Pluripotency, Signalling pathway, Neural progenitor cells, Differentiation efficiency, Mouse embryonic stem cells, Neural stem cell, Embryonic stem cell.