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Line 1: − + − + − 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. +
Less peacock, more science
'''Stem cells''' have the remarkable potential to develop into many different cell types in the body.
A '''Stem cells''' is a cell that has the ability to differentiate into two or more different types of mature cells within the body.
When a stem cell divides, each new cell has the potential to either remain a stem cell or to become another type of [[cell]] with a more specialized function, such as a [[muscle]] cell, a [[red blood cell]], or a [[brain]] cell.
When a stem cell divides it can divide in such a way as to produce two new daughter stem cells, or one or both of those cells could become more specialized. Stem cells in a mature [[organism]] serve to produce types of cells that are constantly in need of replacement (such as sperm cells) or two repair unexpected damage. Stem cells have a sort of hierarchy of potential, with some having the ability to transform into a broader range of final cell types.
*Broadly speaking, a stem cell is one that – in the course of [[cell division]] and increase in the numbers of cells – is able to reproduce itself and also mature into various specialized types of cells. The stem cell with the greatest potential (totipotential) is the fertilized [[egg cell]], which is capable of developing into a complete organism. [http://www.21stcenturysciencetech.com/articles/winter01/stem_cell.html]
*Broadly speaking, a stem cell is one that – in the course of [[cell division]] and increase in the numbers of cells – is able to reproduce itself and also mature into various specialized types of cells. The stem cell with the greatest potential (totipotential) is the fertilized [[egg cell]], which is capable of developing into a complete organism. [http://www.21stcenturysciencetech.com/articles/winter01/stem_cell.html]