In recent years, stem cells have attracted more attention. They are viewed as a potential treatment for a variety of medical conditions. You might have wondered if stem cell treatments can help you with a particular medical condition. Understanding how stem cells function is important before you decide to seek stem cell treatment. You should be aware of some important facts about stem cells.
What are stem cells ?
Stem cells are cells from which all other cells with specific functions are derived. They are also the raw material of the body. In the right conditions they can be divided to produce other cells, called daughter cells. These daughter cells can either be new stem cells, or cells that have a specific purpose, such as blood, brain, or bone cells. Stem cells can only generate new cell types.
Where are stem cells derived?
The embryo is the most common source of stem cells. Embryonic cells come from embryos between three and five days old. The embryos are called blastocysts, and they have around 150 cells. Pluripotent stem cell are the stem cells embryos possess. They can either divide to form more stem cells, or they can change into another type of cell. This versatility is why embryonic cells are often used to repair damaged tissue or organs.
Adult tissues can also be a source of stem cells. Adult stem cells can be found in fat and bone marrow. At first, adult stem cells were thought to have a limited ability of changing into another type of cell within the body. Recent evidence suggests that stem cells of this type can create different types of cells. For example, a stem cell from bone marrow could be able create a cell of the heart muscle. Researchers have found stem cells in the amniotic liquid, umbilical blood and adult cells that have been altered to mimic embryonic stem cell properties.
What is stem cell therapy?
Stem cell therapy is the use of stem cells to promote tissue repair in injured, diseased or dysfunctional tissues. In a laboratory, stem cells are grown and then manipulated into specific cell types, such as blood cells or nerve cells. The cell can then be implanted in a human once it has been specialized. This could be done with someone who has heart disease. The stem cells used to make heart muscle cells are injected directly into the heart muscle.
Here are some basic facts about stem cells and stem cell therapy. Researchers are still studying different ways that these cells can help people heal. Learn as much about stem cell therapies as possible before seeking out a provider.
