Mandi Kinsey
Med Tech
Period 1
Stem Cells
Pros and Cons of Stem Cells
The dictionary definition of a stem cell is a cell that upon division replaces its own numbers and also gives rise to cells that differentiate further into one or more specialized types, as various B cells and T cells. Stem cells are in our body all our lives, but are far more useful in a fetus than in an adult body. Some types of stem cells may be able to create all other cells in the body. Others are able to repair or replace damaged tissue or cells. Embryonic Stem Cells are developed from a female egg after it is fertilized by sperm. Some pros of Stem Cells are they have the potential to develop into many different cell types in the body during early life and growth. In many tissues they serve as an internal repair system dividing to replenish other cells as long as the person or animal is still alive. Neural cells in the brain and spinal cord that have been damaged can be replaced by stem cells. In the treatment of cancer, cells destroyed by radiation or chemotherapy can be replaced with new healthy stem cells that adapt to the affected area, whether it be part of the brain, heart, liver, lungs, or wherever. Dead cells of almost any kind, no matter the type of injury or disease, can be replaced with new healthy cells thanks to the amazing flexibility of stem cells.
Stem cell research is used for investigation of basic cells which develop organisms. The cells are grown in laboratories where tests are carried out to find all information about these cells. Pros of stem cells research are, Stem cell research can potentially help treating a range of medical problems. It could lead humanity closer to better treat and possibly cure a number of diseases. Such as, Parkinson’s Disease, Alzheimer’s Disease, Heart Diseases, Stroke and Type 1 Diabetes, Birth Defects, Spinal Cord Injuries, Replace or Repair Damaged Organs, Reduced Risk of Transplantation You could possibly get a copy of your own...