One of the Institute's four core research programs, the Stem Cell Biology effort is led by John D. Gearhart, Ph.D., a pioneer in human pluripotent stem cell research.

Work in this core program is focused on understanding the natural life cycle of human embryonic germ cells, which were first isolated and cultured in Gearhart's lab.

The scientists have been working to understand the signals these cells use to take different paths -- they can either regenerate themselves or become one of many specialized cell types.

Scientists in this research program are also trying to manipulate or harness the cells' natural signals to produce desired cell types, particularly pancreatic cells.