What is a Stem Cell?
Stem cells are unique cells in the body that have the ability to develop into many different cell types. They serve as a repair system for the body and possess two essential properties: they can divide and replicate themselves (self-renewal) and they can differentiate into specialized cells (differentiation).
Types of Stem Cells
- Embryonic Stem Cells: Found in early embryos, these cells can turn into any cell type in the body.
- Adult Stem Cells: Located in various tissues, these cells are typically multipotent, meaning they can develop into a limited range of cells related to their tissue origin.
- Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells (iPSCs): These cells are engineered in the lab from adult cells to revert them to a pluripotent state, allowing them to develop into any cell type.
Applications of Stem Cells
Stem cells have significant potential in medical research and therapies. They are used in regenerative medicine, for treating diseases like leukemia, and in research for understanding developmental processes, genetic diseases, and potential treatments for conditions such as Parkinson's and diabetes.
Ethical Considerations
The use of stem cells, particularly embryonic stem cells, raises ethical questions about the moral status of embryos, necessitating a balance between scientific advancement and ethical responsibility.