This unit describes how to generate human induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells and evaluate the qualities of the generated iPS cells. The methods for establishment and maintenance of human iPS cells are similar to those for mouse iPS cells but not identical. In addition, these protocols include excellent procedures for passaging and cryopreservation of human iPS cells established by ES cell researchers, which result in an easy way to culture human iPS cells. Moreover, we include methods for characterizing iPS cells for further research. RT-PCR and immunocytochemistry for detection of pluripotent cell markers, embryoid body differentiation, and teratoma differentiation are used to determine pluripotency in vitro and in vivo, respectively.
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