Embryonic stem cells are derived from the epiblast. A subpopulation of epiblast cells expresses MyoD mRNA and the G8 antigen in vivo. G8 positive (G8pos) and G8 negative (G8neg) populations were isolated by magnetic cell sorting. Nearly all G8pos cells switched from E- to N-cadherin and differentiated into skeletal muscle in culture. G8neg cells were impaired in their ability to switch cadherins and few formed skeletal muscle. Medium conditioned by G8pos cells stimulated skeletal myogenesis and N-cadherin synthesis in G8neg cultures. The effect of conditioned medium from G8pos cultures was inhibited by bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) 4. Treatment of G8neg cells with a soluble form of the BMP receptor-IA or Noggin promoted N-cadherin synthesis and skeletal myogenesis. These results demonstrate that MyoD-positive epiblast cells recruit pluripotent cells to the skeletal muscle lineage. The mechanism of recruitment involves blocking the BMP signaling pathway.

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Jail-based student-run clinics, though uncommon, have the potential to impact the future health workforce. We evaluated, via a survey of student attitudes and a collection of lessons learned, a student–faculty collaborative clinic that was implemented in a jail in 2015. Clinic participation led to significantly greater student volunteer ratings of the importance of collaborating with oral health providers and of comfort in providing care to incarcerated populations. We report lessons learned regarding logistical considerations, volunteer behavior, and common issues arising in clinic visits. The clinic proved feasible and sustainable over several years, offering a new model for the involvement of trainees in correctional health care.