Stem Cells and Stem Cell Therapy: A Glance into the Future of Medicine
What are stem cells and where do they come from?
What is stem cell therapy? What are the scientific advantages and disadvantages of using embryonic stem cell therapy? Should the government continue to fund embryonic stem cell research or should it be restricted to private institutions?
Answer:
Stem cells are undifferentiated cells that can develop into different types of specialized cells in the body. They can be derived from embryos, adult tissues, and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). Stem cell therapy involves using stem cells to treat diseases and injuries by replacing or repairing damaged cells or tissues. Embryonic stem cells possess the unique capability to differentiate into any type of cell in the body, making them valuable for research and therapeutic purposes. However, there is a risk of tumor formation associated with embryonic stem cell therapy.
Explanation:
Stem cells have the remarkable ability to develop into specialized cells in the body. They can be derived from various sources, including embryos, adult tissues, and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). Embryonic stem cells are obtained from embryos and can differentiate into any cell type, making them valuable for research and therapy. Adult stem cells are found in specific tissues and play a role in tissue repair. Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) are reprogrammed adult cells that offer personalized medicine possibilities.
Stem cell therapy involves using stem cells to replace or repair damaged tissues. While embryonic stem cells have advantages such as pluripotent nature, allowing them to differentiate into any cell type, there are also disadvantages like the risk of tumor formation. The choice of government funding for embryonic stem cell research involves considering the potential for medical advancements against ethical concerns. Private institutions may offer more research flexibility without government regulations.