What are pluripotent stem cells?
There are various types of stem cells: pluripotent, multipotent, and unipotent.
Pluripotent stem cells are embryonic stem cells (ESCs) or induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). They can divide into more stem cells or can become any type of cell in the body and can be used to regenerate or repair diseased tissue and organs. However, ESCs are derived from embryos and therefore research using human embryonic stem cells is ethically controversial. In some countries, such as Germany, even the production of new ESCs is prohibited. A very promising alternative to embryonic stem cells is induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). They are obtained by the “reprogramming” of adult cells, e.g. connective tissue cells from the skin, through the introduction of some genes that are very active during early embryonic development.
For these cells, scientists need a serum-free medium with controlled amounts of growth factors to keep cells undifferentiated for as long as possible. In addition, scientists must add an attachment matrix or carrier to the culture to allow the cells to expand.