Stem cell image of the day: smooth muscle from embryonic stem cells

Vascular smooth muscle cells differentiated from human embryonic stem cells stained for DNA (blue) and the smooth muscle markers smoothelin (red) and caldesmon (green).
Leslie Caron, GENEA, Australia2011 IN Cell Analyzer Image Competition

An image of smooth muscle cells derived from embryonic stem cells was among the winners of the IN Cell Analyzer Image Contest. This image will be one of three displayed on NBC Universal’s high-definition screen in Times Square April 20-22.

The Scientist quoted Nick Thomas, principal scientist at GE and one of the judges in the competition:

“Our theme this year was how images can cross the boundaries between science and art. With every entrant investigating exciting areas of science, we shortlisted images that were also fascinating for artistic qualities like their color and composition. We wanted the images to appeal to both scientists and anyone who likes beautiful pictures.”

Science and art aficionados can see more beautiful stem cell images on our Flickr site.

A.A.