Human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) are pluripotent cells capable of differentiation to representatives of all three germ layers. Includes: Isolation of Primary Mouse Embryo Fibroblasts; Thawing and preparing p1 MEF feeder plates; Preparation of MEF- Conditioned Medium (MEF-CM; Microdissection Passaging of hESCs; Bulk passaging of hESC; Cryopreservation of hESCs; Thawing of hESCs; Karyotyping. - [Read Human Embryonic Stem Cell Protocols]
This protocol describes the preparation of feeder cells from MEF cells or from the STO mouse fibroblast cell line. The cells are rendered mitotically inactive by treatment with {gamma}-irradiation. The feeder layers can then be used to maintain embryonic stem (ES) cells in the undifferentiated state. - [Read Preparing Feeder Cell Layers from STO or Mouse Embryo Fibroblast (MEF) Cells Protocol]
Germ layers are multipotent tissues that have the ability to differentiate into various tissue types. Isolation and manipulation of germ layers is important for examining differentiation. This protocol describes a method for separating postimplantation germ layers. - [Read Separating Postimplantation Germ Layers Protocol]
The liver of a rat is cannulated and perfused in situ with buffer, following which it is excised and perfused in a closed system with a collagenase solution. After a period of time the liver begins to break up, at which point it is transferred to a measuring cylinder and culture medium is added. It is then gently agitated to cause the release of cells which are subsequently filtered and allowed to settle out. The parenchymal and non-parenchymal cells form two distinct layers which can be separat - [Read The Isolation and Culture of Rat Hepatic Cells Protocol]