Difference between revisions of "Stem cell"
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| − | '''Stem cells''' have the remarkable potential to develop into many different cell types in the body. Serving as a sort of repair system for the body, they can theoretically divide without limit to replenish other cells as long as the organism is still alive. When a stem cell divides, each new cell has the potential to either remain a stem cell or become another type of cell with a more specialized function, such as a muscle cell, a red blood cell, or a brain cell. | + | '''Stem cells''' have the remarkable potential to develop into many different cell types in the body. Serving as a sort of repair system for the body, they can theoretically divide without limit to replenish other cells as long as the [[organism]] is still alive. When a stem cell divides, each new cell has the potential to either remain a stem cell or become another type of cell with a more specialized function, such as a muscle cell, a red blood cell, or a brain cell. |
==Controversy over human embryonic stem cell research== | ==Controversy over human embryonic stem cell research== | ||
Revision as of 23:14, August 22, 2007
Stem cells have the remarkable potential to develop into many different cell types in the body. Serving as a sort of repair system for the body, they can theoretically divide without limit to replenish other cells as long as the organism is still alive. When a stem cell divides, each new cell has the potential to either remain a stem cell or become another type of cell with a more specialized function, such as a muscle cell, a red blood cell, or a brain cell.
Controversy over human embryonic stem cell research
Wolfgang Lillge, M.D. wrote:
- The question of stem cells is currently the dominant subject in the debate over biotechnology and human genetics: Should we use embryonic stem cells or adult stem cells for future medical therapies? [1]
Ann Coulter wrote:
- ... experimentation is just one more step in desensitizing people to the idea of taking human life. http://www.nationalreview.com/coulter/coulter072601.shtml