Preface - Stem Cells are Finally Starting to Jell

Abstract

The advent of stem cells as a tool to decipher the cell’s biology and as a source of transplant therapy to correct aging and diseases has become a core research arena for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. It is thus fitting that The Open Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine hosts this volume dedicated to a pivotal source of stem cells – the umbilical cord’s Wharton jelly. Much kudos go to lead editor Dr. Giampero La Rocca for organizing this special volume of the journal, comprising of pioneering scientists who have advanced the basic and translational applications of Wharton jelly-derived stem cells (La Rocca, TOTERMJ 2011).