WHAT ARE STEM CELLS? They are cells characterized by the ability to divide and differentiate themselves into a variety of specialized cell types. There are embryonic stem cells, which occur in embryos, and adult stem cells, which allow developed organisms to repair and regenerate tissues inside the body throughout the organism's life. Regenerative medicine uses stem cells to create treatments for leukemia and other blood and bone cancers, as well as in animals for tendon and ligament injuries.
The Biophysical Society contributed to the information contained in the TV portion of this report.