| Abstract: | Realising the therapeutic promise of embryo-derived stem cells is absolutely dependent on the evolution of defined and quality assured in vitro culture systems to mediate their isolation, expansion and delivery. Critical to the safety of these systems, both for the transplant recipient and the general population, is the necessity to eliminate dependence on animal cell-derived reagents to reduce the risk of cross-specific disease transmission. This paper discusses progress in the development of defined culture systems for human embryonic stem cell isolation and the challenges that still must be overcome. |
