Stem Cells

Stem Cells

Introduction

Stem cell research helps us understand how they are transformed into a range of specialized cells that make us such as we are. Some of the very serious health problems, such as cancer or developmental abnormalities at birth, are the result of problems that occur somewhere in the process of transformation. A better understanding of normal cell development may help us understand and possibly correct errors that cause health problems.

Discussion

Potential stem cells are able to create cells and tissues for medical purposes. Donor organs and tissues of today often replace a diseased organs and tissues. Unfortunately, the number of people needing a transplant exceeds the number of available organs for transplantation. Pluripotent stem cells represent a new source for replacement cells and tissues in the treatment of a huge number of diseases and conditions, including Parkinson's disease, spinal injuries, burns, heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, etc. Moreover, scientists hope that in the near future it will be possible to create on the basis of the trunk marketing full-fledged cell tissues and organs needed for transplant patients rather than the donor. Such works are carried out successfully in many laboratories around the world.

However, stem cells often also function as stem cells. Under the slogan that hides the cells that are capable of infinite number of divisions. So there are cells that have two main features: immortality and renewal. Stem cells are characterized by the ability of differentiation to other cell types. In practice, this means that stem cells have the ability to transform into any type of tissue, both free and authority. Ability to differentiate stem cells is not the same, and therefore stands out certain kinds of them. In order to achieve such a transformation, however, require special conditions which will govern their growth and development. Thanks to this ability stem cells appear to be highly desirable in medicine. Thanks to their properties, it is possible to cure many different diseases. An example here may be a disease such as diabetes, heart disease, multiple sclerosis or stroke.

Furthermore, for over 40 years, the blood-forming stem cells are bone marrow in the treatment of leukemia and lymphoma applied (see also Stem Cell Transplantation). During chemotherapy for As the most rapidly growing cells by cytotoxic components destroyed. This not only cancer cells are killed; the stem, the other cells of the body should be repaired, moved by the therapy affected. Particularly affected here are the blood-forming stem cells. Therefore, before chemotherapy stem cells from bone marrow of patients recovered (through so-called autologous transplant) or from a matched donor (called allogeneic transplant). After completion of chemotherapy treatment, the blood-forming stem cells are injected. These stem cells then produce large amounts of red and white blood cells, causing the blood can be kept healthy and infection can be blocked better.

Non-hematopoietic adult stem cells within individual studies with success in paralysis after spinal cord injury and Parkinson's disease have been used. For successful clinical trials could help stem cells from bone marrow patients after ...