Stem cells are unspecialized cells that have the ability to differentiate into a variety of specialized cell types. This makes them a valuable tool for research and regenerative medicine. هناك مصدران رئيسيان للخلايا الجذعية: الخلايا الجذعية الجنينية والخلايا الجذعية البالغة.
The Origins of Stem Cells
يتم اشتقاق الخلايا الجذعية من كتلة الخلايا الداخلية للكيسة الأريمية, which is a hollow ball of cells that forms during early embryonic development. The inner cell mass gives rise to the embryo proper, while the outer layer of cells forms the placenta.
مصادر الخلايا الجذعية
الخلايا الجذعية الجنينية are derived from the inner cell mass of a blastocyst. هذه الخلايا متعددة القدرات, meaning that they can differentiate into any type of cell in the body. لكن, embryonic stem cells are controversial because they require the destruction of an embryo.
الخلايا الجذعية البالغة are found in small numbers in various tissues throughout the body. These cells are multipotent, meaning that they can differentiate into a limited number of cell types. لكن, adult stem cells are more difficult to isolate and grow in culture than embryonic stem cells.
Stem cells are a promising tool for research and regenerative medicine. لكن, the ethical concerns surrounding embryonic stem cells have led to the development of alternative sources of stem cells, such as adult stem cells.
