Extemporaneously Speaking about

Stem Cells

1. What are stem cells?

Stem cells are a type of repair cell in the body. They have the ability to change into many types of cells to help repair or re-grow a part of the body. These cells can split and each half can become another stem cell or any type of cell the body needs such as a brain cell, blood cell, or muscle cell.

2. Why are they important for research?

These cells can be used to create many types of cells or even to create whole organs.  Embryonic stem cells can be used to create almost anything because they are undifferentiated, whereas adult stem cells have already specialized and therefore are more difficult to manipulate and keep alive in a lab.  With the ability to grow cells, scientists believe we will be able to cure ailing organs by adding a few cells with the ability to rebuild the entire organ.

3. What are some things that can be done with them?

Stem cell usage, especially embryonic stem cells, has the potential to cure diseases from heart disease to kidney failure.  Virtually any part of the body can be rebuilt with stem cells.  The periodontal ligament , bone marrow , diabetes, strokes, burns, arthritis, and Parkinson’s disease are just a few of the potential applications.  Stem cells researchers believe there may be potential help almost any injury or disease. To find out more check out Research as U-Wisconsin.  There is a tremendous upside to stem cell research and much work is being done to over turn G.W. Bush’s decision to stop government funding of stem cell research.  Check out NIH stem cell  or sign the petition.