What are the methods used for stem cell differentiation?

Stem cell differentiation is a process by which generic stem cells with low specificity develop into specialized cells that are able to perform specific functions in the body. It may occur naturally or it may be induced in the lab. This ability of stem cells to differentiate into almost any cell in the body makes them an invaluable asset in a wide range of therapies for treating various conditions. 

The methods used for stem cell differentiation depend on a number of factors including the types of stem cell and somatic cell, species and target lineages.  

The generation of embryoid bodies or EBs is of the oldest and still the most widely used methods for stem cell differentiation. Embryoid bodies are generated by culturing stem cells in the absence of a complex matrix, an adherent surface or feeder cells. Under these conditions, stem cells aggregate and spontaneously differentiate. The resultant aggregated stem cells or embryoid bodies contain all three germ layers and can be used as the initial stage of differentiation for induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and embryonic stem cells (ESCs). This initial structure is used to generate all downstream differentiated cells.