Intra-operatively obtained human tissue: Protocols and techniques for the study of neural stem cells

Kaisorn L. Chaichana, Hugo Guerrero-Cazares, Vivian Capilla-Gonzalez, Grettel Zamora-Berridi, Pragathi Achanta, Oscar Gonzalez-Perez, George I. Jallo, Jose Manuel Garcia-Verdugo, Alfredo Quiñones-Hinojosa

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

34 Scopus citations

Abstract

The discoveries of neural (NSCs) and brain tumor stem cells (BTSCs) in the adult human brain and in brain tumors, respectively, have led to a new era in neuroscience research. These cells represent novel approaches to studying normal phenomena such as memory and learning, as well as pathological conditions such as Parkinson's disease, stroke, and brain tumors. This new paradigm stresses the importance of understanding how these cells behave in vitro and in vivo. It also stresses the need to use human-derived tissue to study human disease because animal models may not necessarily accurately replicate the processes that occur in humans. An important, but often underused, source of human tissue and, consequently, both NSCs and BTSCs, is the operating room. This study describes in detail both current and newly developed laboratory techniques, which in our experience are used to process and study human NSCs and BTSCs from tissue obtained directly from the operating room.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)116-125
Number of pages10
JournalJournal of Neuroscience Methods
Volume180
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - May 30 2009

Keywords

  • Brain tumor stem cells
  • Electron microscopy
  • Immunocytochemistry
  • Immunohistochemistry
  • Neural stem cells
  • Neurospheres

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Neuroscience

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