Using human stem cells
Stem cells can divide to produce new cells, which can then divide into different cell types. They therefore have the potential to be transplanted into patients to treat medical conditions and diseaseIllness affecting plants and animals.. They could be used to replace cells that have been damaged or destroyed, eg:
- in type 1 diabetesA serious disease in which the body is unable to regulate blood sugar.
- in cases of multiple sclerosisA condition, usually autoimmune, in which the myelin sheaths of the neurones of the brain and spinal cord are damaged, reducing the transmission of nerve impulses, and leading eventually to paralysis. , which can lead to paralysisThe loss of muscle function in part of the body.
- in cases of spinal cordThe part of central nervous system of a mammal which runs inside its backbone or brainThe organ of the central nervous system of mammals where vital functions are coordinated injury, that have led to paralysis
The stem cells used could be:
- embryonic stem cellA type of stem cell found in the embryo, capable of dividing into almost any cell type.
- adult stem cellA type of stem cell found in specific locations in adults. Adult stem cells can only differentiate into a limited number of related cell types.
Embryonic stem cells can differentiate into a wider range of cell types, but are difficult to obtain and their use raises ethical challenges. The best source is the five-day-old embryo.
Adult stem cells will differentiate into a narrower range of cell types. Bone marrow transplants are an example of adult stem cell transplant. Bone marrow cells will differentiate into different types of blood cell. Bone marrow transplants are carried out:
- in cases of blood cell cancerA disease caused by normal cells changing so that they grow and divide in an uncontrolled way. The uncontrolled growth causes a lump called a tumour to form. such as leukaemia and lymphoma
- when blood cells have been destroyed by cancer treatment