Part of understanding the controversy over stem cells is knowing what stem cells are and why they are so important. A stem cell can potentially become many different cells in the body, and this transforming power may make them useful in curing many different diseases and health problems. It is also possible that a stem cell can divide itself repeatedly to replace other cells.

Stem cells are different than other body cells in two important ways. First, they are considered unspecialized cells and researchers know that they can create new cells by dividing. Second, researchers have found that they can get these cells to become special function cells.

A stem cell can be either an embryonic or adult stem cell. Scientists are not sure whether adult stem cells can become a different type of cell than what they already are, which could limit their use as a cure for many diseases. In contrast, they know that embryonic cells can be stimulated to become a wide range of cell types.

Thus, scientists are most interested in how embryonic cells could be used to treat diseases like diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, and heart disease. Embryonic cells can be divided and reproduced easily in a culture, whereas adult cells are difficult to reproduce in culture. However, one advantage to adult stem cells is that it is possible that a person’s own stem cells could be grown and used, which would ensure that the cells wouldn’t be rejected.

Every individual possesses these cells and they are important to body function. In embryos, stem cells form specialized cell types that become the heart, lungs, and other tissues. In adults, a stem cell regenerates cells for tissues like muscles, bone marrow, and the brain. These cells may become damaged from normal wear and tear or injury.

Before stem cells could be used to help cure diseases, a great deal of research has to be done. Scientists want to know how undifferentiated cells become specialized cells. They believe that genes play a role in this process, but they are not sure how this process works.

A better understanding of how these cells work will also be needed before they can be used for medical treatments. Some serious conditions like cancer and birth defects are caused by improper cell differentiation. Thus, scientists need to understand how the cells do this before they will be safe for use.

One potential use for stem cells will be for drug testing. More drugs could be tested for safety on stem cells. Scientists will need to be able to create identical calls in order for the studies to give the best information on whether the drug will work and if it is safe.

Another potential use is in cell based therapies. Stem cells might be able to reproduce organ tissue, which would help the many individuals waiting for organ transplants. In addition, the cells could help treat problems like heart disease, spinal cord injuries, strokes, and Alzheimer’s disease.

The controversy over stem cell research is likely to continue for some time. Some individuals believe that embryonic stem cells should not be used for testing or research. Others believe that all stem cells available should be used because of the potential benefits.