This is comprehensive overview of a vital area of scientific enquiry,
which covers a broad spectrum of issues. With contributions from some of
the key researchers in the field, Adult Stem Cells: Biology and Methods
of Analysis offers readers a historical perspective as well as unique
insights into cutting-edge thoughts. The volume contextualizes the
recent discovery of stem/progenitor cell populations resident in many
adult tissues and organs. It confronts the complexities scientists face
in trying to validate these cells, while it also describes and
critically evaluates the methods currently used to assess stem cell
self-renewal. The chapters also seek to distinguish this process from
other aspects of cell survival, such as the regulation of life span,
senescence, and immortalization at a molecular level.
The monograph begins with a section that examine the basic biology of
adult stem cells, including chapters on the emerging role of microRNAs
in regulating their fate and the molecular mechanisms that govern their
self-renewal, the book moves on to analyze the varying methodologies
employed in characterizing these elusive elements of our genetic
make-up. The second section details in-vivo lineage tracing of
tissue-specific stem cells, explores the neural stem cell paradigm, and
considers the function of ABC transporters and aldehyde dehydrogenase in
adult stem-cell biology. The final section shifts the focus to the
life-span regulation and immortalization and features a chapter on the
cancer stem cell paradigm.
This is an authoritative volume on one of the frontiers of genetic
research, and will serve as a valuable resource, not just for
established scientists but also for those now entering the field of stem
cell biology.
