Week 2

Question 1

What are stem cells

Answer 1

Special cells that can divide and develop into different types of cells. Totipotent, pluripotent and multipoint. Pluripotent stem cells can become any of the three germ layers, ectoderm, mesoderm, or endoderm.

Question 2

What are iPSCs

Answer 2

Pluripotent stem cells that are generated by reprogramming somatic cells. Lentiviruses were originally used to revert cells back to stem cells however now methods like the Sendai virus vectors are used

Question 2

How are iPSCs cultured

Answer 2

Traditionally grown on feeder layers which provide the EXM and growth factors. Now feeder free systems are common where mitragel which contains growth factors like FGF2. iPSCs grow rapidly so they need to be fed every day and passages every 3-5 days.

Question 4

Feeder free systems and ECM coatings