According to many in the medical field, stem cells are set to revolutionized medicine in the 21st century.
Stem cells do not have a specialized function; they are an immature kind of cell that still has the potential to develop into many different kinds of cells.
Scientists distinguish between several types of stem cells, some of those being tested and used in stem cell therapy are, embryonic stem cells, adult stem cells, umbilical cord stem cells, mesenchymal stem cells and iPS cells.
The benefit of stem cell research lies in the creation of cell-based therapies for genetic diseases, as well as other human injuries and illnesses.
Diabetes, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, stroke, spinal cord injury, cancer, heart disease, cerebral palsy, and even autism are being viewed today as good candidates for stem cell treatments. The results heard from those who have been treated with stem cell therapy in clinics around the world has been very positive. Many recipients have reported good success following their treatments, they have talked about miracles large and small occurring.
Stem cells may also provide a new way of testing drugs for effectiveness and for dangerous side effects, without using animals or humans.
There has been and still continues to be much debate over the ethical use of stem cells, especially with regards to embryonic stem cells, and cloning. Scientists are also aware that these treatments are not risk free and urge patients to use caution especially with regards to the regulation of stem cell therapies.
The benefits of stem cell research and therapy applications are not only important to the field of medicine, but also to mankind. While there are concerns to be regulated and discussed, the potential outcome for improving quality of life is overwhelming and needs to be utilized.
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