ABSTRACT
This chapter describes the processes involved in the derivation and characterization of cardiomyocytes using the unique human embryonic stem (ES) cell differentiation system. It also describes the potential research and clinical applications of the new technology in cardiovascular medicine. ES cells can be propagated continuously in the undifferentiated state when grown on mouse embryonic fibroblast feeder layers. In the mouse model this can also be achieved in the feeder free setting by supplementing the medium with leukemia inhibitory factor. The most attractive application of human ES cells, and the one that receives the most attention, is in cell replacement therapy: to replace diseased, missing or degenerative tissue. The adult heart has only limited regenerative capacity and therefore any significant myocardial cell death resulting from ischemic heart disease, viral infection or immunopathological conditions may lead to permanent impairment of myocardial performance, and ultimately, heart failure.
