Protocol for Collection, Culture, and Characterization of Human Skin Stem Cells

Background: Stem cells with their tremendous differentiation and trans-differentiation potential are the cells with many applications in degenerative disease management. Isolation, characterization, and differentiation are the areas that are most widely investigated to take the cells in clinical settings. Among many sources of stem cells, the skin is getting special attention because it is one of the most easily accessible tissues and has high differentiation potential. Methods: We have given a detailed description of skin tissue collection, processing, and cell culture. The RNA isolation and cell proliferation by the MTT assay have also been elaborated. Discussion: All the protocols detailed here were standardized in the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi. We hope the protocols will be of help to those who initiate studies of skin stem cells and new investigators who may come up with further modifications. This will benefit advancement in this field.