Tag Archives: amniotic stem cells

All About Stem Cells

There’s been a lot of talk (and debate) about stem cells. But what are they? Stem cells are cells with the potential to develop into many different kinds of cell. Normal cells in the body have only one specialized function; stem cells work like a repair system, dividing to replenish other cells and taking the function of whatever type of cell is needed. When a stem cell divides, the two new cells can take on a special function or remain as stem cells. There are three types of stem cells. Totipotent: with the potential to create all the types of … Continue reading →

A New Source For Stem Cells

The debate over stem cells may be nearing an end. Scientists reported earlier in January that they found a new source for human stem cells — stem cells that are easier to collect AND come without the ethical issues we’ve seen concerning embryonic stem cells. So where do these new stem cells come from? They are found in amniotic fluid — the liquid that surrounds a baby in the womb. Stem cells found in amniotic fluid can be collected at the same time amniocentesis is done, with very little risk to mother or child. And the cells can theoretically be … Continue reading →