Stem Cells: What They Are and What They Do
Stem cells are a hot topic right now in the medical world. Although stem cell research and clinical trials have been ongoing for decades, it is only in recent years that these studies and treatments have been working toward perfection. More is being done with stem cells today than ever before. But what exactly are stem cells, and what do they do that makes them so amazing?
Stem Cells’ Definition
According to the Oxford dictionary, a stem cell is an undifferentiated cell of a multicellular organism that is able to create more similar cells, as well as certain other types of cells that can arise by differentiation. But what does this scientific description really mean? Stem cells are cells that can create more undifferentiated cells, which means that those cells can take on almost any purpose. These stem cells can also be used to grow new cells of certain types for combating illness and disease.
Stem Cells in Treatment
There are a number of treatments that use stem cells for healing and fighting off illness and disease. Stem cells are used to help grow healthy tissue in medical conditions such as arthritis, where cartilage tissue is worn away. Stem cells can also be used in treatments for a number of other medical conditions in which the body needs some extra help in healing.
Stem Cells in Research
Stem cells are also being used in research in a number of different ways. Scientists are using stem cells and scaffolding to develop new technology for correcting certain medical defects and conditions. For example, one research group is trying to build new portal veins for patients of dialysis using stem cells and scaffolding.
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