Stem cells have the potential to be of help in many different areas of health and medical research. To begin with, studying stem cells helps us to understand how they are able to transform into the dazzling array of specialized cells that make us what we are. Some of the most serious current medical conditions, such as cancer and birth defects, are due to problems that occur somewhere in this process. A better understanding of normal cell development will allow us to understand and perhaps correct the errors that cause these medical conditions.
Another potential application for stem cells is in creating cells and tissues for medical therapies. Today, donated organs and tissues are often used to replace tissues that have been damaged, contaminated by disease or even destroyed. Unfortunately, the number of people needing a transplant far exceeds the number of organs available for transplantation. Pluripotent stem cells offer the possibility of a renewable source of replacement cells and tissues to treat a myriad of diseases, conditions, and disabilities including Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases, spinal cord injuries, strokes, burns, heart disease, diabetes, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. |
