Stem cells

stem cell

A type of undifferentiated cell that has the ability to develop into various types of specialized cells. Stem cells are unique because they can divide to produce more stem cells (self-renewal) or differentiate into specialized cells with specific functions.

differentiation

The process by which a stem cell or a less specialized cell becomes more specialized in structure and function. During differentiation, cells take on specific roles, such as becoming muscle cells, nerve cells, or blood cells.

embryonic stem cells

Pluripotent stem cells derived from early embryos (usually from a blastocyst). These stem cells can differentiate into any cell type in the body but cannot form a complete organism on their own.

embryonic stem cells ethical considerations

The use of human embryonic stem cells raises ethical issues because the embryos are destroyed in the process of obtaining these cells.

adult somatic stem cells

Stem cells found in tissues of the body after development. These cells are typically multipotent and are involved in the repair and maintenance of the tissue in which they are found. (bone marrow)

stem cell therapy

The use of stem cells to treat or prevent disease or injury. Stem cells can potentially replace damaged tissues or cells, offering treatment options for conditions like Parkinson's disease, spinal cord injuries, and certain types of cancer.

regenerative medicine

A branch of medicine that uses stem cells, tissue engineering, and gene editing techniques to replace or regenerate damaged tissues and organs. (growing replacement skin for burn victims using stem cells)

cloning

The process of creating an identical copy of an organism or cell. Cloning can refer to both reproductive cloning (creating an identical organism) and therapeutic cloning (creating identical cells for medical use).

stem cell culture

The process of growing stem cells in a laboratory setting under controlled conditions. This allows for the study and manipulation of stem cells, including differentiation into specific cell types or the development of new treatments.

differentiation potency

The capacity of a stem cell to differentiate into different types of cells. The potency of stem cells ranges from totipotent (ability to form any cell type) to unipotent (ability to form only one cell type).

genetic engineering

The direct manipulation of an organism's genes using biotechnology. In stem cell research, genetic engineering is often used to modify stem cells (e.g., turning somatic cells into iPSCs or correcting genetic diseases). (correct mutation)

stem cell research

A field of scientific research focused on understanding the properties of stem cells and how they can be used to treat diseases, regenerate tissues, and study development.