Do you understand the role of stem cells?
Stem Cells and Differentiation
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Overview of Stem Cells
Stem cells are undifferentiated cells that have the potential to develop into various cell types. Their role varies across different organisms: in human embryos, they can turn into almost any cell type, while in adults, they contribute to tissue repair and regeneration. In plants, meristem tissue continuously produces cells for growth and repair throughout the plant’s life.
Applications and Considerations
Stem cells can theoretically treat medical conditions, enhance agriculture, and conserve rare species. However, their use comes with ethical and practical concerns, such as the risk of viral infections and questions about the ethics of embryonic stem cell research.
Key Information on Stem Cells
| Source of Stem Cells | Function/Capability | Applications | Considerations/Risks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Embryonic Stem Cells | Can differentiate into almost any type of human cell | Used in medical treatments, e.g., therapeutic cloning | Ethical/religious objections; risk of viral infections |
| Adult Stem Cells | Found in bone marrow, can form various cell types like blood cells | Tissue repair and regeneration | Limited differentiation capability |
| Plant Meristem Tissue | Can differentiate into any plant cell type throughout life | Cloning rare species, replicating high quality crops for agriculture | – |