Induced pluripotent stem cell retain an inactivated X chromosome, study finds
Mon, 06 Sep 2010 14:00:00 EDT
Female induced pluripotent stem cells, reprogrammed from human skin cells into cells that have the embryonic-like potential to become any cell in the body, retain an inactive X chromosome, stem cell researchers have found.

'Basal-like' breast cancer does not originate from basal stem cells
Mon, 06 Sep 2010 08:00:00 EDT
New research uncovers a case of mistaken identity that may have a significant impact on future breast cancer prevention and treatment strategies. The study suggests that despite their "stem cell-like" characteristics, most aggressive breast tumors are not derived from normal mammary gland stem cells.

How physical environment influences stem cell development
Mon, 06 Sep 2010 00:00:00 EDT
Recent research reveals how physical qualities -- and not only chemical ones – may have an influence in determining how adult stem cells from the bone marrow develop into differentiated ones. The finding represents an important step in understanding the mechanisms that direct and regulate the specialization of stem cells from their undefined state.

Biologists find way to reduce stem cell loss during cancer treatment
Sun, 05 Sep 2010 00:00:00 EDT
Biologists have discovered that a gene critical for programmed cell death is also important in the loss of adult stem cells, a finding that could help to improve the health and well-being of patients undergoing cancer treatment.

Functional motor neuron subtypes generated from embryonic stem cells
Sat, 04 Sep 2010 14:00:00 EDT
Scientists have devised a method for coaxing mouse embryonic stem cells into forming a highly specific motor neuron subtype. The research provides new insight into motor neuron differentiation and may prove useful for devising and testing future therapies for motor neuron diseases.