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A stem cell assay is an analytical method used to evaluate the functional properties, quality, and biological behavior of stem cells under controlled laboratory conditions. These assays help researchers determine key characteristics such as self-renewal capacity, differentiation potential, viability, and proliferation rates. Because stem cells play a critical role in regenerative medicine, drug screening, and disease modeling, stem cell assays are essential tools for ensuring that the cells being used are potent, safe, and reliable.

Different types of stem cell assays are designed to measure specific functions. Colony-forming assays assess the ability of stem or progenitor cells to proliferate and form colonies, reflecting their growth potential. Differentiation assays evaluate how effectively stem cells can develop into specialized cell types such as neurons, cardiomyocytes, or blood cells. Flow cytometry-based assays help identify cell populations by detecting cell-surface markers, enabling precise characterization of stem cell subsets. Viability and cytotoxicity assays determine how cells respond to different culture conditions or therapeutic compounds.

Stem cell assays are also essential for quality control in clinical-grade stem cell production. They ensure that stem cell therapies meet regulatory standards for purity, potency, and safety before being used in patients. In drug discovery, these assays help researchers understand how potential treatments affect stem cell health and differentiation pathways.

Overall, stem cell assays provide critical insights that guide research, support therapeutic development, and ensure the safety and effectiveness of stem cell-based applications