Stem cell
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 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. [1]
Controversy over human embryonic stem cell research
A vocal minority of scientists supports embryonic stem cell research, even though adult stem cells are just as viable. The controversy arises from the fact that embryonic stem cells are, by definition, taken from unborn children, which pro-life people strongly oppose.
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? [2]