The Promise of Stem Cells & Regenerative Medicine
Diane Aceveda, Biochemistry, San Diego State University (daceveda17@gmail.com);
Diana Mercado, Biology Neuroscience, San Diego City College (diana_mercado21@hotmail.com);
Rogelio Estrada, Cell Biology, San Diego City College (rogelio_jello@hotmail.com)
INTRODUCTION
Regenerative medicine refers to the field of scientific study
focused on replacing or regenerating human cells, tissues or
organs to restore or establish normal function. Central to the
success of this field are stem cells, which can divide and
differentiate into specialized cell types found in the body. More
importantly, they can also produce more stem cells as they
possess the unique property for self-renewal. Stem cells, through
their self-renewal and specialization (differentiation) properties,
may hold the promise of regenerating damaged tissues or organs
impacted by disease.
Bio4Front Inc. is a company
that specializes in developing custom
educational training programs in the
life sciences for academic, government and industry
organizations. Our goal was to develop a core curriculum and
instructional tools in Stem Cells & Regenerative Medicine for the
education of potential clients. Here we present a summarized
version of the key concepts in stem cell biology, the promise of
regenerative medicine in treating disease, and its applications in
basic research and benefits in healthcare. We will also present the
methods used to conduct our internship team research.
CONCEPTS in STEM CELL BIOLOGY
A. Basic Properties of Stem Cells
B. Types of Stem Cells
SUMMARY: ‘What We Learned’
• Enhanced knowledge of basic cell and molecular biology
• The properties of stem cells, the potential for regenerative
medicine and the benefits for improved healthcare
• Matrix Project Team system leveraged resources resulting in
quickly and efficiently achieving goals
• Effective communication and team member accountability is
essential for optimal team performance & productivity
• Utilizing all communication channels overcame challenges of
scheduling conflicts
METHODS
• Each intern conducted subject matter research as
independent study format (from home or library) within the
Intern Team
• Surveyed public literature and databases, employing webbased and Microsoft Office tools
• Completed designated assignments within a ‘matrix’ Project
Team environment and held weekly Project Team meetings
• Established effective communication through email, phone
and weekly meetings with Project Team Members
• Collected, collated and organized research data
• Assembled a PowerPoint presentation and workbook with
slides and pertinent notes.
The PROMISE of REGENERATIVE
MEDICINE
C. Culturing & Selection of Stem
Cells
• Establish
action
items
• Prepare an
agenda
• Keep records
• Keep it professional
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
We would like to recognize the San Diego MESA Alliance
and NSF for internship funding support (SDSU NSF Grant
#DUE0653277, SDCC NSF Grant #DUE0653291). Special
thanks to Eric Pamintuan, Program Coordinator, and San
Diego City College MESA Director Rafael Alvarez for their time
and effort, and Dr. Philip Sheridan for mentorship at
Bio4Front Inc. Most importantly, we would like thank
our family and friends for their continued
encouragement and support.