This volume examines cell-cell interactions and stem cell renewal, two topics that are now inexorably linked as science strives to understand the stem cell niche and its function. Gathering a number of representative protocols, this detailed collection promises to provide readers with approaches for studying these complimentary aspects of stem cells. Written for the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology series, chapters include brief introductions to their respective topics, lists of the necessary materials and reagents, step-by-step, readily reproducible laboratory protocols and tips on troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls. Practical and reliable, Stem Cell Renewal and Cell-Cell Communication: Methods and Protocols will aid researchers in using these methods to advance their own studies.