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The Basics of Stem Cells

Stems cells can develop into many different types of cells.  They can also be repair systems in tissues.  After a stem cell divides, it can remain as a stem cell or become a cell with a specialized function, like a muscle cell.  Scientists work with two types of stem cells: embryonic and non-embryonic (somatic/adult).  Stems cells are very vital to life.  They eventually give rise to the entire organism.  Since they have regenerative abilities, they have the potential to treat diseases, like diabetes.  All stem cells share the same three characteristics.  They can all divide and renew themselves for long periods.  All stem cells are not specialized, however they can all become specialized.  Embryonic stem cells are able to become all cell types in the body since they are pluripotent. Adult stem cells are may be limited to differentiating into different cell types of their tissue of origin.  Embryonic stem cells are easier to grow in cultures.  However, adult stem cells are less likely to be rejected after transplantation.
The study of human embryonic stem cells can give information about the complex processes of the human body.  This can explain how diseases occur and may give new ways to treat these diseases.  Human stem cells are being used to test new drugs.  Most importantly, human stem cells can make cells and tissues that can be used for cell-based therapies.  Stem cells that become specific cell types, allow for a renewable source of replacement cells and tissues that can treat diseases such as macular degeneration, spinal cord injury, stroke, burns, heart disease, diabetes, osteoarthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis.

Source:  http://stemcells.nih.gov/info/basics/pages/basics7.aspx