Basic Human Embryonic Stem Cell Survival Cocktail
Two growth factors, insulin, cholesterol, albumin, transferrin and the B-cell activating factor April/BAFF – that's all human embryonic stem cells need in their culture medium in order to grow continuously and maintain their ability to divide and differentiate. This foundation called "Hesco" (human embryonic stem cells co cktail) was developed by scientists led by Michael Snyder from Yale University.
The researchers were looking for the minimum supply for the valuable cells, as any excess of ingredients in the medium carries the risk of contaminating or impairing the cell lines, for example by triggering an immune reaction. They therefore only used recombinant, chemically synthesized or purified human factors to maintain cell growth.
At Hesco, the scientists were able to easily cultivate the human embryonic stem cells in their undifferentiated stage, but also stimulate them to differentiate into the embryonic ground tissues ento-, meso- and ectoderm.
Human embryonic stem cells are regarded as a beacon of hope in modern medicine, particularly in organ regeneration. However, their extraction is ethically controversial, which is why in Germany only cell lines from embryos that were created before January 2002 in an artificial insemination for a pregnancy may be used. However, there are concerns that the culture media of these cells may be contaminated with animal matter.
