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This book renders a comprehensive understanding of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) from their embryonic development through adult maintenance to aging, in the studies conducted in zebrafish and mammals. Hematopoiesis provides a paradigm for understanding the development, maintenance, regeneration, aging and malignant transformation of mammalian organs. Sitting at the apex of the hematopoiesis hierarchy tree, HSCs orchestrate their proliferation, self-renewal, and differentiation to produce all the blood cell lineages throughout life, which represents the best example for somatic stem cell studies. In this book, key regulatory mechanisms for HSC self-renewal and differentiation are overviewed in an array of fields including epigenetics, metabolism and microenvironment regulation. It also highlights the HSC heterogeneity and clonal dynamics from the recent advanced single-cell technologies. This book elaborates on the research history of HSC studies and reveals how the insights from HSC studies shed light on their clinic application. It presents great value from the bench to the clinic.

Much research has focused on the basic cellular and molecular biological aspects of stem cells. Much of this research has been fueled by their potential for use in regenerative medicine applications, which has in turn spurred growing numbers of translational and clinical studies. However, more work is needed if the potential is to be realized for improvement of the lives and well-being of patients with numerous diseases and conditions.This book series'Cell Biology and Translational Medicine (CBTMED)'as part of Springer Nature's longstanding and very successful Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology book series, has the goal to accelerate advances by timely information exchange. Emerging areas of regenerative medicine and translational aspects of stem cells are covered in each volume. Outstanding researchers are recruited to highlight developments and remaining challenges in both the basic research and clinical arenas. This current book is the 18th volume of a continuing series.

Cancer is a major public health concern and one of the leading causes of death. There is no simple solution for this complex disease, therefore interdisciplinary approaches might help to find solutions to many unanswered questions and challenges about cancer. The rapid flow of interdisciplinary research in cancer during recent years has increased our understanding of the nature of cancers. Such interdisciplinary approaches could be helpful for both the diagnosis and the development of more effective therapeutic strategies.The “Interdisciplinary Cancer Research” series publishes comprehensive volumes on different cancers and presents the most updated and peer-reviewed articles on human cancers. Over the past decade, increased cancer research has greatly improved our understanding of the nature of cancerous cells which has led to the development of more effective therapeutic strategies to treat cancers. This interdisciplinary series is of special value to researchers and practitioners working on cell biology, immunology, hematology, biochemistry, genetics, oncology and related fields. This is the main concept of Cancer Immunology Project (CIP), which is a part of Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN).

Much research has focused on the basic cellular and molecular biological aspects of stem cells. Much of this research has been fueled by their potential for use in regenerative medicine applications, which has in turn spurred growing numbers of translational and clinical studies. However, more work is needed if the potential is to be realized for improvement of the lives and well-being of patients with numerous diseases and conditions.This book series'Cell Biology and Translational Medicine (CBTMED)'as part of Springer Nature's longstanding and very successful Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology book series, has the goal to accelerate advances by timely information exchange. Emerging areas of regenerative medicine and translational aspects of stem cells are covered in each volume. Outstanding researchers are recruited to highlight developments and remaining challenges in both the basic research and clinical arenas. This current book is the 17th volume of a continuing series.

The handbook comprehensively reviews the therapeutic potential of stem cells and stem cell secretome-based cell-free strategies in regenerative medicine. The chapters in section I and section II respectively discuss the diverse applications of mesenchymal stem cells and non- mesenchymal stem cells, including skeletal myoblasts, endothelial progenitor cells, adipose tissue-derived stem cells, induced pluripotent stem cells, and neuronal stem cells in myocardial repair, inflammatory bowel disease, cognitive deficits, wound healing, retinal disorders, and COVID-19. The subsequent chapters in section IIIprimarily focused on the fast-emerging cell-free therapy approach in regenerative medicine for tissue repair and regeneration. These chapters review the impact of stem cell-derived secretome on various biological processes such as angiogenesis, neurogenesis, tissue repair, immunomodulation, musculoskeletal pathologies, wound healing, anti-fibrotic, and anti-tumorigenesis for tissue maintenance and regeneration.Lastly, section IV summarizes miscellaneous aspects of cell-based therapy, includingthe treatment advantages, opportunities, and shortcomings in stem cell-based therapy, potentially helping to refine future studies and translate them from experimental to clinical studies. Moreover, this section also has chapters on cancer stem cells as novel targets in cancer therapeutics. This Major Reference Book (MRW) is a valuable resource for researchers involved in stem cell research to understand the multifaceted therapeutic applications of stem cells and their derivative secretome in regenerative medicine.​

This book covers important topics such as the dynamic structure and function of the 26S proteasome, the DNA replication machine: structure and dynamic function and the structural organization and protein–protein interactions in the human adenovirus capsid, to mention but a few.The 18 chapters included here, written by experts in their specific field, are at the forefront of scientific knowledge. The impressive integration of structural data from X-ray crystallography with that from cryo-electron microscopy is apparent throughout the book. In addition, functional aspects are also given a high priority. Chapter 1 is available open access under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License via link.springer.com.

Dieser Sammelband analysiert die klinische Anwendung von humanen induzierten pluripotenten Stammzellen (hiPS-Zellen) aus naturwissenschaftlicher, unternehmerischer, patientenorientierter, ethischer und rechtsvergleichender Perspektive. Die Beiträge des vorliegenden Bandes sind systematisch nach Stakeholdern gegliedert, also nach jenen Personen oder Organisationen, die von einem Transfer der Stammzellforschung in die klinische Medizin direkt oder indirekt betroffen sind. Dies ermöglicht eine zielgerechte Suche nach Antworten auf individuelle Fragen im Translationsprozess für neuartige Therapien. Darüber hinaus enthält der Sammelband die Empfehlungen des Forschungsverbunds ClinhiPS, die sich an alle Stakeholder, insbesondere an Forscher, Kliniker und Patienten, sowie an Gesetzgeber richten. Diese Empfehlungen sollen zu einer erfolgreichen Umsetzung der hiPS-Zell-Forschung in die klinische Praxis in Deutschland und Österreich unter Beachtung höchster Qualitäts-, Sicherheits- und Wirksamkeitsstandards beitragen.Das Kapitel'Naturwissenschaftliche, ethische und rechtliche Empfehlungen zur klinischen Translation der Forschung mit humanen induzierten pluripotenten Stammzellen und davon abgeleiteten Produkten'wird auf link.springer.com unter der Creative Commons Namensnennung 4.0 International Lizenz veröffentlicht.

This book discusses the role of genes, oncogenes, anti-oncogenes, free radicals, PUFAs, anti-oxidants, lipid peroxidation process, telomere, and angiogenesis on the origin of cancer, cell proliferation, and cancer in general. It includes a broad introduction to cancer cells; genes, oncogenes, and anti-oncogenes; and free radicals. In later chapters, it discusses in depth the relationship among free radicals, lipid peroxidation and anti-oxidants in cell proliferation. It also discusses aerobic and anaerobic metabolism and their relationship to cancer, as well as the Warburg effect and its potential in the development of new targets for cancer management. Based on these and other evidences, Molecular Biochemical Aspects of Cancer introduces a novel concept that suggests that selective enhancement of free radical generation in tumor cells could form a strategy to induce apoptosis of cancer cells employing bioactive lipids. It presents a new method of treatment ofcancer using in vitro, in vivo and clinical data. This book will interest oncologists, scientists, molecular biologists, life scientists.

This book presents state-of-the-art pre-clinical models and clinical applications of stem-cell-based therapies applied to different lung diseases, with a special focus on the translation of bench data into clinical studies. Starting with the assumption that abnormal lung tissue repair and regeneration has emerged as the driving force underlying pathogenesis and progression in many lung diseases, it sheds new light on the potential of stem/stromal cells as drivers of repair and sources of reparative factors in the lung. The first part of the book offers an overview of stem cell types and mechanisms involved in lung development, homeostasis, repair and regeneration, and reveals the crucial role of the extracellular matrix within the lung microenvironment. In the second part, leading experts present the latest pre-clinical evidence and clinical applications of stem-cell-based therapies in a wide variety of lung diseases, ranging from COPD and lung fibrosis to other rare lung diseases. The last section discusses stem cell delivery systems and devices, such as aerosolised spray application. This book appeals to pneumologists, stem cell and matrix biologists, as well as bioengeneers with a special interest in regenerative medicine applied to pulmonary diseases.

This book looks at where stem cell technology is presently and how it is instrumental in advancing the field of disease modeling and cell transplantation. By focusing on major human disorders such as Alzheimer's disease, cancer, and heart disorders, the book summarizes the major findings in the field of human stem cells and dissect the current limitations on our understanding of stem cells biology. The chapters focus on the genetics, genomics, epigenetics and physiology of stem cells models, together with technological advances on molecular biology such as CRISPR/Cas9 or epigenetic editing, that will be instrumental in the future of human disease modeling and treatment. In base of the limitations of current disease models and in front of the unmet necessity of finding therapeutical interventions for human disorders, the availability of stem cell technology has opened new doors for several fields. The unlimited self-renewal capacity and more extensive differentiation potential of stem cells offers a theoretically inexhaustible and replenishable source of any cell subtype. Since Professor Shinya Yamanaka described it, 10 years ago in his seminal paper, that somatic cells could be reprogrammed to inducible stem cells (iPSC) just by expressing four transcription factors, the field of has exploded, especially its applications in biomedical research.

In three Volumes this mini book series presents current knowledge and new perspectives on cartilage as a specialized yet versatile tissue. This third volume provides insight into current and future treatment strategies for repair of cartilage lesions. This book addresses Professors, researchers and PhD students who are interested in musculoskeletal and cartilage pathobiology and tissue-engineering.

This book explores the role of endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) in the context of regenerative medicine (RegMed). In particular, it reveals the value of RegMed as a new TM branch intended to improve the health and quality of life, by restoring, maintaining or enhancing tissue and functions of organs.The book is divided into three chapters, the first of which describes the relevance of translational medicine (TM) as a new research approach to counteract the imposing challengeof age-related diseases. Of the diverse RegMed approaches, particular attention is paid to stem/progenitor cell-based therapies, their benefits and shortcomings, as well as to the description of types of stem and progenitor cells considered for regenerative cell therapies, such as EPCs as emerging candidates for RegMed applications.In turn, the second chapter outlines the clinical relevance of EPCs as both potential predictors, diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers of age-related diseases and therapeutic agents,discussing their advantages, disadvantages, and conflicting data.Chapter three proposes a potential roadmap for revising the findings and creating a clearer picture of valid data, which can provide support for various important aspects, i.e.isolating and characterizing EPCs by establishing standardized criteria for EPC research, identifying appropriate sub-populations for cell therapy, timing, dosing, priming of cells,and defining delivery modes for different applications. The book concludes with an overview of innovative strategies that could improve the efficacy of cell therapy at all levels, including cell priming, bio-nanotechnology, and tissue engineering.

This invaluable resource delineates procedures for development and use of stem cells in the laboratory and explores the potential for clinical applications. The text discusses mesenchymal stem cell isolation, isolation of adipose derived stem cells, new trends of induced pluripotent stem cells in disease treatment, cord blood banking, future directions of the discussed therapies and much more. The chapters are contributed by preeminent scientists in the field and present a comprehensive picture of stem cell processes, from development in the laboratory to effects and side-effects of clinical application.Stem Cell Processing and the other books in the Stem Cells in Clinical Applications series, edited by Dr. Phuc Van Pham, is essential reading for scientists, researchers, advanced students and clinicians working in stem cells, regenerative medicine or tissue engineering.

This book focuses on the basic aspects of dental stem cells (DSCs) as well as their clinical applications in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. It opens with a discussion of classification, protocols, and properties of DSCs and proceeds to explore DSCs within the contexts of cryopreservation; epigenetics; pulp, periodontal, tooth, bone, and corneal stroma regeneration; neuronal properties, mesenchymal stem cells and biomaterials; and as sources of hepatocytes for liver disease treatment. The fifteen expertly authored chapters comprehensively examine possible applications of DSCs and provide invaluable insights into mechanisms of growth and differentiation.Dental Stem Cells: Regenerative Potential draws from a wealth of international perspectives and is an essential addition to the developing literature on dental stem cells. This installment of Springer's Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine series is indispensable for biomedical researchers interestedin bioengineering, dentistry, tissue engineering, regenerative medicine, cell biology and oncology.

This book explores Dental Stem Cell (DSC) biology, from a review of basic concepts for cell culture, to isolation, self-renewal, multipotency and differentiation, regulation by molecular medicine, and prospective research areas for regenerative medicine. The first seven chapters delve into basic DSC properties, vital signaling pathways involved in differentiation, pluripotency, iPS cell development from DSCs, and genetic engineering approaches of DSCs in accordance with the current literature. A comprehensive review of possible clinical applications and in vitro/in vivo studies follows, illustrating the future of DSC research for in the tissue engineering field. The text also discusses the political, ethical, social, and legal ramifications of the use of dental stem cells. Expertly authored and drawing from a multitude of international perspectives, Dental Stem Cells is an invaluable addition to Springer's Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine series. It is essential reading for advanced graduate students, basic researchers, and clinical investigators in the fields of stem cell therapy, biological sciences of dentistry, and regenerative medicine.

This book will cover the cutting-edge developments in molecular and cellular mechanobiology to date. Readers will have a clear understanding of mechanobiology at the molecular and cellular levels, encompassing the mechanosensors, transducers, and transcription. An integrative approach across different scales from molecular sensing to mechanotransduction and gene modulation for physiological regulation of cellular functions will be explored, as well as applications to pathophysiological states in disease. A comprehensive understanding of the roles of physicochemical microenvironment and intracellular responses in determining cellular function in health and disease will also be discussed.

Since the publication of the sixth edition of this benchmark text, numerous advances in the field have been made – particularly in stem cells, 3D culture, scale-up, STR profiling, and culture of specialized cells. Culture of Animal Cells: A Manual of Basic Technique and Specialized Applications, Seventh Edition is the updated version of this benchmark text, addressing these recent developments in the field as well as the basic skills and protocols. This eagerly awaited edition reviews the increasing diversity of the applications of cell culture and the proliferation of specialized techniques, and provides an introduction to new subtopics in mini-reviews. New features also include a new chapter on cell line authentication with a review of the major issues and appropriate protocols including DNA profiling and barcoding, as well as some new specialized protocols. Because of the continuing expansion of cell culture, and to keep the bulk of the book to a reasonable size, some specialized protocols are presented as supplementary material online. Culture of Animal Cells: A Manual of Basic Technique and Specialized Applications, Seventh Edition provides the most accessible and comprehensive introduction available to the culture and experimental manipulation of animal cells. This text is an indispensable resource for those in or entering the field, including academic research scientists, clinical and biopharmaceutical researchers, undergraduate and graduate students, cell and molecular biology and genetics lab managers, trainees and technicians.

Mesenchymal stromal/ stem cells (MSCs) represent a heterogeneous cell population with immunomodulating, tissue repairing, differentiating, migratory and angiogenic abilities, making them important tools for clinical and translational research. An understanding of the role of MSCs in modulating tumor growth provides a glimpse into their role in non-pathological tissue remodeling and potential regenerative tissue therapies. Mesenchymal Stromal Cells as Tumor Stromal Modulators is a comprehensive source for the understanding of the role of MSCs as ubiquitous connective tissue cell components, which may have both direct and indirect effects on the tumor microenvironment and potential for regenerative therapeutics for various diseases. Using cancer as a model disease, this book explores the transformative role MSCs play in the recruitment of disease cells, cell repair and immunological defenses. - Explores the biology of mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) and tissue related function - Discusses the bidirectional communication between tumor stroma and MSCs derived from bonemarrow, from adipose tissue and from other tissue types - Provides in-depth analysis of the effects of MSCs on key processes that regulate disease progression,such as angiogenesis, metastatic potential, invasion, proliferation, tumor immune privileges

This book covers several aspects of perinatal tissue-derived stem cells, from theoretical concepts to clinical applications. Topics include functions and different sources, immunomodulatory properties, translational point of view, GMP facility design and manufacturing for clinical translation, therapeutic potentials, and finally ethical considerations. The text provides a brief review of each type of perinatal stem cells and then focuses on their multi- or pluripotent properties, regenerative capacity, and future therapeutic potential in regenerative medicine. Additionally, the book discusses GMP compliance in stem cell facilities and the manufacture of stem cells for clinical translation. The chapters are authored by world-renowned experts in the perinatal stem cell field. Perinatal Tissue-Derived Stem Cells: Alternative Sources of Fetal Stem Cells, part of Springer's Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine series, is essential reading for basic and clinical scientists, clinicians, and pharmaceutical experts working or conducting research in the fields of stem cell biology, molecular aspects of stem cell research, tissue engineering, regenerative medicine, and cellular therapy.

This book provides a comprehensive review of the properties of various stem cell types, the mechanisms of their behaviors and their potential clinical application. Stem cells have a great capacity of self-renewal and differentiation. They represent new paradigms for disease treatment in the field of regenerative medicine since the day they were discovered. As stem cell research is complicated and making progress rapidly, it is important to have expertise in this field to share their views and perspectives. This book provides a wonderful platform for those who are interested in stem cells to learn from and communicate with experts. Particularly, it highlights the roles of stem cell based therapy for a variety of diseases. Furthermore, this book gives a detailed introduction to the great works related to stem cells in China. The readers could gain a profound knowledge of the state-of-art research done by scientists in the field of stem cells. Overall, this book will be a valuable reference resource for both experienced investigators pursuing stem cell research as well as those are just entering into this field.Dr. Robert Chunhua Zhao, a Cheung Kong Professor of Stem Cell Biology, is Professor of Cell Biology at the Institute of Basic Medical Sciences & School of Basic Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College (PUMC), Beijing, China. He is Director of the Center for Tissue Engineering, PUMC and Chief Scientist of the National Basic Research Program of China (“973 Program”). He also serves as Regional Editor of Stem Cells and Development.

This book provides an unprecedented overview of'Targeted Therapies'for acute myeloid leukemias. It aims at an almost comprehensive coverage of the diverse therapeutic strategies that have been developed during the last decade and are now being evaluated in early clinical trials. Paired and authoritative chapters by leading research scientists and clinicians explain basic concepts and clinical translation of topics that include the underlying genetic and proteomic abnormalities of AML, the development of novel nucleoside analogues, the roles of microRNAs, apoptosis regulators Bcl-2 and p53 and of critical cell signaling proteins such as PIM, FLT3, Raf/MEK, PI3K/AKT/mTOR and aurora kinases. Chapters on epigenetic mechanisms, nuclear receptors, cell surface antigens, the hypoxic leukemia microenvironment, stem cells and leukemia metabolism provide insights into leukemia cell vulnerabilities. Cell therapies utilizing T-, NK- and mesenchymal stem cells and progress in hematopoietic transplantation strategies round up this overview of the multi-dimensional therapeutic landscape in which leukemia specialists develop treatment strategies that are expected to make'leukemia history'in the near future.

This comprehensive volume discusses the current scope of umbilical cord blood transplantation (UCBT), including recent controversies and future developments for improving clinical outcomes. Its twenty chapters introduce new applications in regenerative medicine and discuss the latest scientific, regulatory, clinical and investigational aspects of cord blood banking. Physicians from around the world provide a global collaboration which explores strategies for umbilical cord blood expansion, homing, unit selection, and combining of graft sources to improve patient outcomes. Umbilical Cord Blood Banking and Transplantation also reviews advances in pediatric UCBT for hematologic and non-hematologic disorders as well as immune recovery, which is critical to preventing infection. Finally, it compares UCBT with other graft sources in an attempt to understand the optimal graft source for the individual patient. UCBT is an important option for many patients who need a transplant but do not have a family donor or a matched unrelated donor. The collective and timely knowledge presented here is essential reading for any regenerative medicine investigator, cord blood banker, transplant laboratory scientist or clinical physician interested in improving and expanding the applications of umbilical cord blood.

Progress in Molecular Biology and Translational Science provides a forum for discussion of new discoveries, approaches, and ideas in molecular biology. It contains contributions from leaders in their fields and abundant references. Volume 126 features in-depth reviews that focus on the tools required to investigate mechanotransduction. Additional chapters focus on how we can use these tools to answer fundamental questions about the interaction of physical forces with cell biology, morphogenesis, and function of mature structures. Chapters in the volume are authored by a unique combination of cell biologists and engineers, providing a range of perspectives on mechanotransduction. - Provides a unique combination of perspectives from biologists and engineers - Engaging to people of many training backgrounds

This comprehensive volume is one of the first books to offer the reader detailed insight into sources of perinatal stem cells, their biology, and their potential for disease treatment. It examines the research and therapeutic applications of perinatal stem cells including the treatment of renal disease, hematopoietic regeneration, cardiac disease, inflammatory disease, bone regeneration, pulmonary disease, and the treatment of spinal cord injury. Further, the book discusses current progress in the manufacturing, banking and clinical translation of perinatal stem cells. Through this book, readers will gain a thorough understanding of the current pre-clinical and clinical applications of perinatal stem cells as well as the efforts to support the transition of perinatal stem cell therapies from laboratories to clinics.Perinatal Stem Cells contains thirty-two chapters written by internationally recognized leaders in stem cell research. It is organized into four sections covering amniotic fluid stem cells, placental and placental membrane stem cells, umbilical cord stem cells, and clinical translation. This cohesive structure provides an effective framework for detailed insight into this new frontier. Edited by Dr. Anthony Atala, one of the foremost experts in the field, and his co-editor Dr. Sean V. Murphy, this volume is a definitive work for stem cell research and its future implications. It is a key resource for all stem cell researchers, clinicians, and government and industry staff working in this dynamic and exciting field.

Cord Blood Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine discusses the current applications for cord blood stem cells and techniques for banking cord blood. Cord blood, blood from the umbilical cord and placenta of an infant, represents an alternate source of stem cells that can be used to treat a myriad of disorders. Cord blood stem cells are being used more frequently and studied more seriously, as evidenced by the explosion of scientific literature on the topic. Currently, clinical and pre-clinical trials are being done in the field, treating conditions as severe as heart failure. Coupled with regenerative medicine, cord blood stem cells potentially carry the future of research and medicine in treating tissue damage, genetic disorders, and degenerative diseases. Read about new applications for cord blood stem cells and new techniques for banking cord blood — the future of regenerative medicine therapy. - Comprehensive coverage of the medical application of cord blood stem cells - Practical guide for usage of allogeneic and autologous cord blood in regenerative medicine - Covers new applications of cord blood stem cells, particularly transplantation and HIV - Introduces new technologies for cord blood stem cells and regenerative medicine

This volume looks at the state-of-the-science in stem cells, discusses the current challenges, and examines the new directions the field is taking. Dr. Turksen, editor-in-chief of the journal'Stem Cell Reviews and Reports,'has assembled a volume of internationally-known scientists who cover topics that are both clinically and research-oriented. The contents range from sources of stem cells through their physiological role in health and disease, therapeutic applications in regenerative medicine, and ethics and society. An initial overview and a final summary bookend the contents into a cohesive and invaluable volume.

Therapeutic applications within regenerative biomedicine has gained tremendous interest from a growing, multidisciplinary community of investigators in recent years, driven by the hope of finding cures for several diseases. Regenerative Medicine and Cell Therapy discusses cutting-edge science in the field of regenerative biomedicine and its therapeutic applications to various medical disorders. The chapters are written by renowned scientists in the specific fields. This will be a useful book for basic and clinical scientists, especially young investigators and stem cell biology students who are newly entering the world of stem cells research. The editors'goal is that the new knowledge and research outlined in this book will help contribute to new therapies for a wide variety of diseases that presently afflict humanity.

This book reviews the respiratory function of vertebrate red cells. I have defined the phrase'respiratory function'broadly to include, in addition to the actual oxygen and carbon dioxide transport, erythropoiesis, haemoglobin synthesis, red cell structure, the deformability of red cells in circulation, ion and substrate transport across the cell membrane, cellular metabolism, and control of cellular volume and pH. All of these aspects of the red cell function may affect gas transport between the respiratory epithelia and the tissues. Throughout the book, I have tried to relate our current knowledge about the nucleated red cell function to the wealth of information about the function of mammalian red cells. However, whenever possible, I have placed the emphasis on the nucleated red cell function for two reasons. First, the erythro­ cytes of 90% of vertebrate species are nucleated, and, second, nucleated red cell function has not been reviewed earlier in a single volume. This being the case, I have tried to make the reference list as complete as I could with regard to nucleated red cells. I hope that the approach adopted is useful for both com­ parative and human physiologists. Many people have contributed to the making of this book directly or in­ directly. Antti Soivio started me in this field. Prof. Henrik Wallgren has always encouraged fresh scientific ideas in his department. My present ideas of red cell function have been influenced by work carried out with Prof. Roy E.

This book presents the latest findings in the field of research of mechanosensitivity and mechanotransduction in different cells and tissues. Mechanosensitivity and mechanotransduction of the heart and vascular cells, in the lung, in bone and joint tissues, in sensor systems and in blood cells are described in detail. This Volume focuses on molecular mechanisms of mechanosensitivity and mechanotransduction via cytoskeleton. Integrin-mediated mechanotransduction, the role of actin cytoskeleton and the role of other cytoskeletal elements are discussed. It contains a detailed description of several stretch-induced signaling cascades with multiple levels of crosstalk between different pathways. It contains a description of the role of nitric oxide in regulation of cardiac activity and in regulation of mechanically gated channels in the heart. In the heart mechanical signals are propagated into the intracellular space primarily via integrin-linked complexes, and are subsequently transmitted from cell to cell via paracrine signaling. Biochemical signals derived from mechanical stimuli activate both acute phosphorylation of signaling cascades, such as in the PI3K, FAK, and ILK pathways, and long-term morphological modii cations via intracellular cytoskeletal reorganization and extracellular matrix remodelling. Cellular and molecular effects of mechanical stretch on vascular cells are also discussed. This Volume highlights the role of mechanotransduction in the lung, in bone and joint tissues. For the first time mechanosensitivity and mechanotransduction in blood cells are discussed. It contains new insights into mechanosensitive K+ channels functioning in mouse B lymphocytes. This book is a unique collection of reviews outlining current knowledge and future developments in this rapidly growing field. Currently, investigations of the molecular mechanisms ofmechanosensitivity and mechanotransduction are focused on several issues. The majority of studies investigate intracellular signaling pathways. Knowledge of the mechanisms which underlie these processes is necessary for understanding of the normal functioning of different organs and tissues and allows to predict changes, which arise due to alterations of their environment. Possibly such knowledge will allow the development of new methods of artificial intervention and therapies. This book brings up the problem closer to the experts in related medical and biological sciences as well as practicing doctors besides just presenting the latest achievements in the field.

This book summarizes the NATO Advanced Research Workshop (ARW) on “Nanoengineered Systems for Regenerative Medicine” that was organized under the auspices of the NATO Security through Science Program. I would like to thank NATO for supporting this workshop via a grant to the co-directors. The objective of ARW was to explore the various facets of regenerative me- cine and to highlight role of the “the nano-length scale” and “nano-scale systems” in defining and controlling cell and tissue environments. The development of novel tissue regenerative strategies require the integration of new insights emerging from studies of cell-matrix interactions, cellular signalling processes, developmental and systems biology, into biomaterials design, via a systems approach. The chapters in the book, written by the leading experts in their respective disciplines, cover a wide spectrum of topics ranging from stem cell biology, developmental biology, ce- matrix interactions, and matrix biology to surface science, materials processing and drug delivery. We hope the contents of the book will provoke the readership into developing regenerative medicine paradigms that combine these facets into cli- cally translatable solutions. This NATO meeting would not have been successful without the timely help of Dr. Ulrike Shastri, Sanjeet Rangarajan and Ms. Sabine Benner, who assisted in the organization and implementation of various elements of this meeting. Thanks are also due Dr. Fausto Pedrazzini and Ms. Alison Trapp at NATO HQ (Brussels, Belgium). The commitment and persistence of Ms.

The profound transformations occurred in our modern age have been made possible by the unique combination of new technologies. Among them, me- cine has completely changed our perception of life. Longevity has been signi- cantly extended and linked to new lifestyles. The negative impact that pathologies and ageing have always had on the quality of our life is now mitigated by the availability of treatments daily applied to many individuals worldwide. For many years, pharmacological and surgical treatments have been supported by the introduction of biomedical devices. Biomedical implants have played a key role in the development of these treatments and achieved the objective of replacing tissue and organ structures and functionalities. Gra- ally, the scientific and clinical communities have understood that replacement could be improved by materials able to interact with the tissues and to parti- pate in their metabolism and functions. This approach soon led to biomedical implants with improved clinical performances, but also to a new aspiration; rather than replacing damaged tissues and organs scientists and clinicians nowadays aim at their partial or complete regeneration. As a consequence of this ambition, the disciplines of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine have recently emerged. It is the dawn of a fascinating era where scientists from various disciplines, clinicians, and industry will need to intensify their col- borative efforts to provide our society with new and affordable solutions.

The idea of publishing this book on “Bioengineering in Cell and Tissue Research” was originated by Gerhard M. Artmann, with the goal of writing about our dreams and making the reader dream with the authors and be fascinated. The book is meant to have life and spirit, and to become a pioneer in technology and sciences, es- cially the life science. The chapters in this book are written by excellent scientists on advanced, frontier technology and address scienti?c questions that need consid- able thinking in terms of engineering. The aims are to provide the readers, including students, faculty, and all scientists working in academia and industry, new infor- tion on bioengineering in cell and tissue research to enhance their understanding and innovation. This book is composed of six sections that cover a broad hierarchy from genes to the universe. These sections are Genes, Genome and Information Network; Cell and Tissue Imaging; Regenerative Medicine and Nanoengineering; Mechanics of Soft Tissues, Fluids and Molecules; Bioengineering in Clinical Applications; and Plant and Microbial Bioengineering.

Magnetoreception or magnetotaxis in bacteria was discovered only some 30 years ago. All magnetotactic bacteria, which occur in many environments and display a remarkable diversity, synthesize magnetosomes, complex intracellular organelles that contain magnetic iron crystals. Recent developments in the research on magnetotactic bacteria are presented in this volume. Included are reviews on the formation and organization of magnetosomes, the genes controlling magnetosome biomineralization, and new cryogenic techniques to visualize novel cytoskeleton structures. Described here are potential nanobiotechnological applications of the magnetosome crystals, which have magnetic and crystalline characteristics unmatched by their inorganic counterparts. Related topics such as the impact of biogenic magnetic crystals in geobiology and paleomagnetism also are discussed. The aim of the book is to provide a broad survey of this multidisciplinary field and to inspire future research on these fascinating organisms.