Stem Cell Research: Fact vs. Fiction

 Stem Cells  

A decade ago, stem cell research was nearly forbidden in parts of the world.  In this article by Kandace Heller, she examines some of the basics of stem cell research and the misconceptions surrounding the research.

There has, in recent years, been an enormous debate surrounding stem cells—pertaining to the harvesting, use, and potential for advancement of therapeutic techniques such cells offer. But many of us, including some who harbor strong feelings against the research may not know precisely what these cells are or be aware of the astounding breakthroughs in harvesting techniques that have been developed since the debate began.

What are they, what can they do, and are there different kinds?

Stem cells are present in all human beings, from the zygote to the most elderly person. However, fetal stem cells have greater potency and potential to self-renew through replication than those present in adult human beings. 

They are, in essence, blank template cells that then may be specialized into heart, nerve or any sort of cells required by the body. These cells fall into the following categories of harvest sources:

•   Adult tissues—such as bone marrow, brain and blood tissues.  

• Embryonic tissues—these have greater potency because they can be formatted in to produce any type of cell.

• Cord tissue—harvested from umbilical cord blood and tissue, these cells may hold enormous potential for the treatment of diseases.

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Stem cells are further divided in terms of potency in the following ways:

• Totipotent cells can differentiate into any type of human tissue, including placental mass. 

• Pluripotent cells derive from the Totipotent type, and after a few days can differentiate into any other sort, except for Totipotent stem cells.

• Multipotent cells descend from Pluripotent cells, and can format into a number of different, specialized cells.

• Unipotent cells are derived from Multipotent types and can produce a single type of specialized cell.

Because of these cells’ ability to essentially format themselves based on what is needed, the potential for new therapeutic uses—such as cancer treatment or the reversal of degenerative, chronic conditions—are extraordinary.

For what sorts of therapy would these cells be used?

Stem cells may be used to treat a variety of autoimmune disorders, in which the body’s defense system attacks the body’s healthy tissues, such as Lupus, Type 1 Diabetes, and Parkinson’s disease. They may also be utilized to repair damage from traumatic events such as stroke or spinal chord injury. Additionally, those who suffer from degenerative disorders of many bodily systems may benefit from such therapies.

New techniques are being developed to harvest these cells harmlessly, even from urine. In light of this, such lines of research are wholly beneficial.

 

By Kandace Heller

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About the Author - Kandace Heller is a freelance writer from Orlando, Florida. Kandace enjoys writing, reading and going on long walks with her orangutan.