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A 'stem cell' is a cell that hasn't yet become specialised.

Stem cells have the ability to form other types of cells.

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Bone marrow is found in the centre of long bones.

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The two main sources of stem cells are in from embryos and from adult bone marrow.

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Adult Stem Cells

e.g. Found in bone marrow and other adult tissues.
Can only become a limited number of types of cells.
Less likely to be rejected by the body.

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Embryonic Stem Cells

Many can be obtained from left over embryos from IVF treatment.
Can form any type of cell.
Higher risk of rejection.

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Scientists hope that in the future stem cells will be used to treat many diseases such as Parkinsons disease, diabetes, blindness and motor neurone disease.

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Some people worry that it is wrong to use stem cells that have been obtained from embryos because they believe that they have the potential to form a living person.

Other people think that it is OK because they are used at such an early stage of development that they cannot be classed as living.

Watch the video below.

What do you think?

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This resource, from Teachers TV, describes the use of stem cell research in the development of treatments for disease such as Parkinson's disease. Stephen Cuff suffers from Parkinson's Disease. The video describes the causes and effects of Parkinson's. Stephen's treatment is to include the implantation of electrodes into his brain that can be used to control his tremors.