This is the first experimental protocol book that covers the differentiation of bone marrow-derived stem cells (BMSCs) into specific cell types, targeted at the undergraduate and graduate student level. The 19 chapters deal with the differentiation methods using small molecules, cytokines and polymeric scaffolds.BMSCs are pluripotential in that they not only act as myelo-regenerative and supportive cells, but can also differentiate into almost any kind of cells in our body. In addition, when implanted in vivo, they could help repair multiple tissues such as blood vessels, heart, liver and so on.For the differentiation of BMSCs, many methods have been introduced to adjust their microenvironment (chemical and physical cues), including chemical induction methods using large or small molecules and pellet culture; mechanical stimulation induction methods using cyclic mechano-transduction or ultrasonication; cytokine-released method using scaffolds; and so on.

As part of the boom in biotechnology, particularly in tissue engineering, primary human cell culture has become a major pillar in academic research and the biopharmaceutical industry. Obtaining a viable culture from a tissue sample and maintaining it for experimental, diagnostic or therapeutic purposes can be quite a challenge. Based on laboratory protocols and practical experience from many years of primary cell culture, this manual presents the basic steps necessary for culturing primary human cells. Written by students for students, the manual serves well as a practical guide to primary human cell culture. The authors have left much space for notes and the design of the manual is such that it can be continuously upgraded and extended. The content of this manual is by no means exhaustive. Protocols for specific cell types, out of over 200 different cell types in the human body, were selected from major tissue groupings in the body. They should serve as a foundation for individual researchers to experiment, explore, and establish niche protocols for their specific needs. Inspired by the practical clinical checklists available to residents and trainees in medicine, the authors have chosen a compact physical format that can fit into the pocket of a lab coat.