About
Stem cells are undifferentiated cells capable of self-renewal and differentiation into specialized cell types. Embryonic stem cells (ESCs) can develop into any cell in the body; adult stem cells are more limited but still powerful. In 2006, Shinya Yamanaka discovered induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) — reprogramming adult cells back to a stem cell state — earning a Nobel Prize and revolutionizing regenerative medicine.
Stem cell therapies are already treating leukemia and other blood cancers through bone marrow transplants. The promise: growing replacement organs, repairing spinal cord injuries, reversing Parkinson's and diabetes. The controversy: early research required destroying human embryos, triggering ethical debates that shaped US science policy for a decade.
# Top 10 Stem Cells facts
- 1Bone marrow transplants — stem cell therapy — have been curing leukemia since 1968
- 2Yamanaka's iPSC discovery (2006) allows adult skin cells to be reprogrammed to become any cell type
- 3The human liver regenerates entirely from stem cells every 300–500 days
Fascinating Facts
- ◆Bone marrow transplants — stem cell therapy — have been curing leukemia since 1968
- ◆Yamanaka's iPSC discovery (2006) allows adult skin cells to be reprogrammed to become any cell type
- ◆The human liver regenerates entirely from stem cells every 300–500 days
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