Derivation of human parthenogenetic stem cell lines.

Pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) derived from parthenogenetically activated human oocytes demonstrate the typical characteristics displayed by human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) including infinite division and in vitro and in vivo differentiation into cells of all germ lineages. Different activation techniques allow the creation of either human leukocyte antigen (HLA) heterozygous human parthenogenetic stem cell (hpSC) lines, which are HLA-matched/histocompatible with the oocyte donor, or HLA-homozygous hpSC lines, which may be histocompatible to significant segments of the human population. This immune-matching advantage, combined with the advantage of derivation from nonviable human embryos that originate from unfertilized parthenogenetically activated oocytes, makes hpSCs a promising source of PSCs for cell-based transplantation therapy.

Lamina propria replacement therapy with cultured autologous fibroblasts for vocal fold scars.

Objectives: To develop a canine model of vocal fold scar and to evaluate its treatment with lamina propria replacement therapy using autologous cultured fibroblasts.

Materials And Methods: Full thickness of the lamina propria layer in canine vocal folds was injured with a laser. Fibroblasts were cultured and expanded in the laboratory from a buccal mucosal biopsy.