Pluripotent stem cell

Pluripotent stem cells are a type of stem cell that have the capacity to self-renew by dividing and to develop into the three primary germ cell layers of the early embryo and therefore into all cells of the adult organism. Scientists are able to grow pluripotent stem cells in a laboratory setting, where they are often referred to as embryonic stem cells.

Characteristics

Pluripotent stem cells are characterized by two distinctive properties: their ability to proliferate indefinitely, and their ability to differentiate into any cell type of the body. This makes them a valuable resource in regenerative medicine, as they can potentially be used to replace or repair damaged tissue.

Sources

Pluripotent stem cells can be derived from several sources. The most well-known source is the inner cell mass of the blastocyst, an early-stage preimplantation embryo. In addition, pluripotent stem cells can also be derived from adult cells that have been reprogrammed back into a pluripotent state. This process, known as induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), was first accomplished in 2006.

Applications

Pluripotent stem cells have a wide range of applications in both research and clinical settings. In research, they are used to study early human development, to investigate the pathogenesis of diseases, and to test new drugs for safety and efficacy. In the clinic, they hold promise for treating a wide range of diseases, including Parkinson's disease, diabetes, and heart disease.

Ethical considerations

The use of pluripotent stem cells, particularly those derived from embryos, has been the subject of ethical debate. Some argue that the potential benefits of stem cell research and therapy outweigh the ethical concerns, while others believe that the use of embryos for research purposes is morally unacceptable.

See also

• Stem cell therapy
• Regenerative medicine
• Cell potency
• Embryonic stem cell