Neural Stem Cells: Methods and Protocols (Methods in Molecular Biology, 438)

Although there has been an explosion of interest and technology in the study of neural stem cells, many questions related to stem cell properties and neural stem cell lineage and differentiation still linger. Neural Stem Cells, 2nd Edition revises and expands upon the successful first edition in order to provide the most current, cutting-edge methods of today for the scientists working to answer these questions. The use of these step-by-step, readily reproducible laboratory protocols will allow investigators to produce pure populations that can serve as a means of understanding the biology of neural stem cells and adapting them for transplantation into disease models. In addition to the topics covered in the first edition, this new volume provides recently developed alternative methods for both human and rodent NSCs, along with chapters on karyotyping, migration, apoptosis, and NSC markers. Following the Methods in Molecular Biology(TM) series format, each chapter has an extended introduction for background, a list of necessary materials, and tips on troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls.

Comprehensive and current, Neural Stem Cells, 2nd Edition is an excellent source of information and inspiration for scientists longing to use these powerful cells against neurogenetic and neurodegenerative diseases.