Stem cells are undifferentiated cells that can grow and multiply to become specialized cells that replace diseased cells in the body. Depending on the type, stem cells can become blood cells, brain cells, heart muscle and bone, organs, nerves and tissue.
What are the types?
There are several types of stem cells. First, there are pluripotent and multipotent. Pluripotent stem cells can become any specialized cell except for cells that support the development of a fetus. Multipotent cells are more limited as to the types of cells they can become. Some stem cells even regenerate to become stems cells again.
Embryonic stem cells are pluripotent and are taken from an embryo at just a few days old. Adult stem cells are cells from adult tissues such as bone marrow or fat and are more limited in what they can become. There are also adult cells induced pluripotent, which have properties similar to embryonic, and perinatal cells that come from amniotic fluid or umbilical cords and can become specialized cells.
How can they be used?
Stem cells can be used to cure those with diabetes, arthritis, Parkinson’s disease, spinal cord injuries, stroke victims, burn victims or cancer patients. If you feel you can benefit from stem cell therapy, come visit us at the American Regenerative Clinic.