Abstract: The invention concerns methods for automated culture of embryonic stem cells (ESCs) such as human ESCs. In some aspects, methods of the invention employ optimized culture media and limited proteolytic treatment of cells to separate cell clusters for expansion. Automated systems for passage and expansion of ESCs are also provided.

Abstract: The invention concerns methods for automated culture of embryonic stem cells (ESCs) such as human ESCs. In some aspects, methods of the invention employ optimized culture media and limited proteolytic treatment of cells to separate cell clusters for expansion. Automated systems for passage and expansion of ESCs are also provided.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods and compositions for the production of hematopoietic progenitor cells or endothelial progenitor cells from human pluripotent stem cells using a defined cell culture medium without the need to utilize feeder cells or serum. In some embodiments, differentiation is accomplished using hypoxic atmospheric conditions. The defined medium of the present invention may contain growth factors and a matrix component. The hematopoietic progenitor cells may be further differentiated into cell lineages including red blood cells, macrophages, granulocytes, and megakaryocytes. The endothelial progenitor cells may be further differentiated into endothelial cells. Also disclosed are screening assays for identification of candidate substances that affect differentiation of pluripotent stem cells into progenitor cells.

Abstract: Provided are methods for generating mast cells from pluripotent stem cells in vitro. Methods are disclosed for the differentiation of pluripotent cells, such as iPS cells and/or human embryonic stem cells, into mast cells. The resulting mast cells may be used for various purposes including screening cells for drug development and research. Growth factors which may be included in culture media according to the present invention include stem cell factor (SCF), FLT-3 ligand, thrombopoietin (TPO), interleukin-3 (IL-3), and/or interleukin-6 (IL-6).

Abstract: This document relates to methods and materials involved in assessing blood components (e.g., assessing von Willebrand factor activity or platelet activity) in mammals. For example, methods and materials involved in using labeled platelets to assess von Willebrand factor activity in a sample (e.g., plasma) from a mammal (e.g., a human) are provided.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods and compositions for the production of hematopoietic progenitor cells or endothelial progenitor cells from human pluripotent stem cells using a defined cell culture medium without the need to utilize feeder cells or serum. In some embodiments, differentiation is accomplished using hypoxic atmospheric conditions. The defined medium of the present invention may contain growth factors and a matrix component. The hematopoietic progenitor cells may be further differentiated into cell lineages including red blood cells, macrophages, granulocytes, and megakaryocytes. The endothelial progenitor cells may be further differentiated into endothelial cells. Also disclosed are screening assays for identification of candidate substances that affect differentiation of pluripotent stem cells into progenitor cells.

Abstract: Provided are methods for generating mast cells from pluripotent stem cells in vitro. Methods are disclosed for the differentiation of pluripotent cells, such as iPS cells and/or human embryonic stem cells, into mast cells. The resulting mast cells may be used for various purposes including screening cells for drug development and research. Growth factors which may be included in culture media according to the present invention include stem cell factor (SCF), FLT-3 ligand, thrombopoietin (TPO), interleukin-3 (IL-3), and/or interleukin-6 (IL-6).

Abstract: The invention concerns methods for automated culture of embryonic stem cells (ESCs) such as human ESCs. In some aspects, methods of the invention employ optimized culture media and limited proteolytic treatment of cells to separate cell clusters for expansion. Automated systems for passage and expansion of ESCs are also provided.