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| Basics Of Stem Cells |
Many of us have heard of the great advances that are taking
place in the field of medicine, and one such area where a large amount of
progress has been seen is in stem cell research.
Stem cell research is currently being used to find new cures
for conditions such as cancer, Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease, to
name but a few. Their role in the discovery of new drugs is invaluable.
But what exactly are these cells? Here we take a look at some
of the basic aspects of these wonderful cells.
What are stem cells?
Stem cells are the most basic of cells in the body. They are
the source of all other cells in various organs present in our body.
The primary role of the cells is to divide into a number of
daughter cells, that then go on to undergo a process of 'differentiation'
leading to the formation of structures such as the heart, brain, spleen,
kidneys, eyes, liver etc.
This property of theirs makes them totally unique. Think of
it like a stem of a plant that branches out with leaves.
Where do they come from?
Scientists often harvest cells from different tissues in the
body.
The most common source is the human embryo. Stem cells can
be extracted when the embryo is just 3 to 5 days old (these embryos are from
donated eggs, not from a growing fetus)!
At this stage, the cells can become anything they want to
become, making their role in research invaluable. They can also be derived from
adult tissues such as the fat and bone marrow.
In addition, they can be derived from the umbilical cord
blood and even from the amniotic fluid.
Why all this interest in these cells?
The unique property of stem cells makes them useful in
researching and understanding how diseases occur. This understanding can help
us discover new treatments to treat conditions such as cancer and Parkinson's
disease.
Stem cell research into treatment of stroke and heart
disease is ongoing, and the results so far are promising. It is believed that
in the future, these cells may be modified in a way to treat conditions such as
type I diabetes and arthritis.
These specialised cells can be grown in a laboratory,
modified in growth culture plates, harvested and then implanted into diseased
organs in order to reverse a disease completely.
Advances in cell therapy have brought hope to many a soul,
and will continue to do so in the years to come. It is therefore no surprise
that stem cells therapy has become the talk of the town in the recent years!