肺部幹細胞及其相關之方法及套組

Methods for the isolation, cultivation, identification, and utilization of pulmonary stem cells are provided. Pulmonary stem cells are derived from mammalian lung tissue, being resident therein. Isolation methods include the identification of putative stem cells by their emergence in primary cultures as discrete slow growing colonies. Confirmation of identity as stem cells is by stem cell markers, such as Oct-4, and by their ability to differentiate into a mature phenotype. Isolation and selective methods further include cell sorting on the basis of stem cell markers. Methods of cultivation whereby stem cell populations are expanded while maintaining the undifferentiated phenotype include the use of defined culture media, culture surface modifications, and co-cultivation with pulmonary stroma cells. Methods for the use of pulmonary stem cells are further provided, for studies of the biology of the cells, including viral infectivity, production of virus, and the testing of anti-infective agents.