Greener Grass: The Modern History of Epithelial Stem Cell Innovation

Abstract

The field of epithelial stem cell development has been irrevocably shaped by the work of American scientist Howard Green, whose breakthroughs in stem cell culture methods translated to therapeutic practice. In this review, we chronicle the milestones that propelled the field of regenerative medicine of the skin forward over the last fifty years. We detail the early discoveries made by Green and his collaborators, highlight clinical cases that made life-saving use of his findings, and discuss the accomplishments of other scientists who later innovated upon his discoveries.