Embryonic Stem Cells
Embryonic Stem Cells
Embryonic stem cells (pronunciation: em-bree-on-ik stem sels) are a type of Stem Cell that are derived from the Embryo that develops from the fertilized egg. These cells are known for their ability to develop into any type of cell in the body, a property known as pluripotency.
Etymology
The term "embryonic stem cells" comes from the Greek word "embryon" which means "young one" and the Latin word "cella" which means "small room". The term was first used in the late 20th century when scientists discovered the potential of these cells in regenerative medicine and tissue engineering.
Characteristics
Embryonic stem cells are characterized by their ability to differentiate into any cell type, and by their ability to self-renew, or replicate themselves. This makes them a valuable resource in the field of regenerative medicine, where they can potentially be used to replace or repair damaged tissues or organs.
Related Terms
- Blastocyst: An early stage in embryonic development from which embryonic stem cells are often derived.
- Differentiation: The process by which a less specialized cell becomes a more specialized cell type.
- Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells: A type of pluripotent stem cell that can be generated directly from adult cells.
- Stem Cell Therapy: The use of stem cells to treat or prevent a disease or condition.
See Also
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