Defining the conditions for the generation of melanocytes from human embryonic stem cells.

Because of their undifferentiated nature, human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) are an ideal model system for studying both normal human development and the processes that underlie disease. In the current study, we describe an efficient method for differentiating hESCs into a melanocyte population within 4-6 weeks using three growth factors: Wnt3a, endothelin-3, and stem cell factor. The hESC-derived melanocytes expressed melanocyte markers (such as microphthalmia-associated transcription factor and tyrosinase), developed melanosomes, and produced melanin.

A tumorigenic subpopulation with stem cell properties in melanomas.

Recent studies suggest that cancer can arise from a cancer stem cell (CSC), a tumor-initiating cell that has properties similar to those of stem cells. CSCs have been identified in several malignancies, including those of blood, brain, and breast. Here, we test whether stem cell-like populations exist in human melanomas.