The regenerative capacity of the liver has been recognized for centuries, but when it is overwhelmed by insulting stimuli or is chronically damaged, its regenerative capability is substantially reduced or lost. Researchers have been working to find solutions to cure failing human liver function. Given the ability of stem cells to self- renew and differentiate into specialized cell liver types, they represent an attractive strategy to replace lost liver function. This book begins by outlining the complex nature of human liver disease and proceeds to examine the potential that stem cell-based approaches have to offer.

Stem Cell Therapy in the Context of Chronic Liver Disease: Promise and Pitfalls. Sources of Human Liver Cells and the Challenge of working with Primary Tissue. Role of Pluripotent Stem Cells in Regenerative Medicine. Human Liver Development as a Template to Generate High Fidelity Models. Applying Pluripotent Stem Cell Technology to Modelling Human Liver Disease. Applying Stem Cell Technology to High Through-put Drug Screening. Stem Cells in the Development of Products for Regenerative Medicine. Cells for Bioartificial Liver Support. Stem Cell Technology and Cell Based Therapies. Advances in Cell Therapy for Liver Disease. Technical and Bioethical Challenges associated with using Stem Cells for Research and Therapy.