USC Research Unveils New Non-Invasive Stem Cell Method
Stem cells, the versatile building blocks of our bodies, are at the forefront of groundbreaking research at the University of Southern California’s Alfred E. Mann Department of Biomedical Engineering. Led by Associate Professor Keyue Shen, a team of researchers has made significant progress in understanding how stem cells divide and transition into different cell types.
In a recent study published in Science Advances, the team introduced a new non-invasive approach to studying stem cell behavior using machine learning. This innovative method provides unprecedented insights into how stem cells proliferate and regenerate into specialized cells, paving the way for advancements in regenerative medicine and beyond.
Traditionally, studying stem cells required invasive techniques that often resulted in the destruction of the cells. However, Shen’s team focused on harnessing real-time imaging technology and metabolic behavior to analyze stem cells without harming them. By tracking the cells’ metabolism, the researchers were able to develop a library of metabolic optical biomarker features that offer valuable information about the cells’ differentiation and function.
Using a mouse model, the team utilized machine learning to create a clustering map of stem cells and non-stem cells, enabling them to track the cells’ behavior and differentiation over time. This approach not only provided new insights into stem cell division but also offered a way to predict whether a daughter cell is likely a stem cell and whether the cells are dividing symmetrically or asymmetrically.
The non-invasive nature of this method opens up new possibilities for studying stem cells in real-time and monitoring their behavior without causing harm. This breakthrough has the potential to revolutionize how stem cells are studied and utilized in various fields, from regenerative medicine to drug discovery and cell therapy.
The research conducted by Shen and his team represents a significant step forward in unlocking the mysteries of stem cells and harnessing their full potential for medical advancements. As they continue to refine their non-invasive approach, the possibilities for using stem cells to repair and regenerate damaged tissues and organs are becoming more achievable than ever before.
