title: Stem cells.
abstract: Stem cells are self-renewing cells capable of differentiating into multiple cell lines and are classified according to their origin and their ability to differentiate. Enormous potential exists in use of stem cells for regenerative medicine. To produce effective stem cell-based treatments for a range of diseases, an improved understanding of stem cell biology and better control over stem cell fate are necessary. In addition, the barriers to clinical translation, such as potential oncologic properties of stem cells, need to be addressed. With renewed government support and continued refinement of current stem cell methodologies, the future of stem cell research is exciting and promises to provide novel reconstructive options for patients and surgeons limited by traditional paradigms.
authors.affiliation: Stanford, Calif.; and Heidelberg, Germany From the Hagey Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, and Institute of Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine; and the BG-Unfallklinik Ludwigshafen, Department of Plastic and Hand Surgery, University of Heidelberg.
authors.forename: Björn
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Behr
authors.forename: Sae Hee
authors.initials: SH
authors.lastname: Ko
authors.forename: Victor W
authors.initials: VW
authors.lastname: Wong
authors.forename: Geoffrey C
authors.initials: GC
authors.lastname: Gurtner
authors.forename: Michael T
authors.initials: MT
authors.lastname: Longaker
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D053595:Embryonic Stem Cells / Q000637:transplantation; D006801:Humans; D039902:Multipotent Stem Cells / Q000637:transplantation; D053652:Nuclear Transfer Techniques; D039904:Pluripotent Stem Cells / Q000637:transplantation; D044968:Regenerative Medicine / Q000379:methods* / Q000639:trends*; D057905:Stem Cell Research; D033581:Stem Cell Transplantation; D013234:Stem Cells; D039901:Totipotent Stem Cells / Q000637:transplantation