What is a STEM CELL? Unspecialized cells: can become any type of cell in the body Serve as the body’s repair system Renew and Replenish other cells

Types of Stem cells 1.Totipotent – have unlimited capacity to become anything. – Can become a new person – Usually give rise to Pluripotent stem cells 2.Pluripotent – can give rise to most tissues – Cannot change back into Totipotent stem cells – Can become other stem cells 3.Multipotents – more specific stem cells that are found in adults and children – Used to replenish old/worn out cells

Where do stem cells come from? 1. Embryonic – blastocyst (embryo) 2.Adult – umbilical cord cells, placenta, children, adults 3.Scientists can now create stem cells in the lab using cells from our bodies (by adding genes = genetic engineering)

Why are stem cells important to us 1. To study how organisms grow and develop 2.Can replace damaged/diseased cells 3.Stem cell therapy

Possible uses of stem cell research Replace tissues and organs Repair defective tissues Delivery of genetic therapies Delivery of chemotherapy