Date: Wednesday 24th June – Friday 26th June 2009 (inclusive)
Venue: The Centre for Stem Cell Biology, The University of Sheffield

This three-day workshop gives participants the opportunity to work with world-leading experts in the field of human embryonic stem cell biology and gain practical experience of the culture and basic analysis of hES cells using a variety of cell lines.

Laboratory practicals are supplemented with lectures of underlying concepts, the latest findings and the legal/ethical considerations in this fast moving field. The course includes a social event and ample opportunity for participants to discuss their research projects and plans with faculty and to investigate potential collaborations.

COURSE OVERVIEW:

This course is limited to 16 students and provides detailed hands-on practical training in the maintenance of human embryonic stem cells. A protocol handbook and training DVD will be provided.

PROVISIONAL PROGRAMME:

Wednesday 24th June
Welcome and Introduction
Lecture 1: Derivation and maintenance of stem cells
Examine ES cultures
Media preparation
Feeder preparation
Derivation of stem cells Q&A
Passaging stem cells onto feeders and into suspension for EB formation
Mechanical passaging
Lecture 2: Differentiation techniques in stem cells

Thursday 25th June
Lecture 3: Maintaining stem cells in alternate conditions
Lecture 4: Freezing stem cells
MEF preparation
Matrigel and alternative feeder layer preparation
Lecture 5: Gene delivery in stem cells
Induced pluripotent stem cells
Vitrification and cryopreservation of stem cells

Friday 26th June
Lecture 6: Antibody labelling of stem cells
In-situ Immunostaining primary application
FACS primary application
In-situ Immunostaining secondary application
FACS secondary application
FACS analysis
In-situ Immunostaining results and pictures
Lecture 7: How to access hESC lines
Round table discussion