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| − | A '''Stem cells''' is a cell that has the ability to differentiate into two or more different types of mature cells within the body.
| + | #REDIRECT [[stem cells]] |
| − | 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.
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| − | *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]
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| − | ==Controversy over human embryonic stem cell research==
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| − | Wolfgang Lillge, M.D. wrote:
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| − | *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? [http://www.21stcenturysciencetech.com/articles/winter01/stem_cell.html]
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| − | ==See also==
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| − | *[[Stem cell research]]
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| − | [[category:Biology]]
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