Szülsejtek

Szülsejtek, commonly translated as stem cells, are undifferentiated or partially differentiated cells that can differentiate into various specialized cell types and can divide indefinitely to produce more of the same stem cell. This dual capacity of self-renewal and differentiation makes them crucial for development and tissue repair.

There are several types of stem cells. Embryonic stem cells, found in the early stages of embryonic development, are pluripotent, meaning they can give rise to any cell type in the body. Adult stem cells, also known as somatic stem cells, are multipotent, capable of differentiating into a limited range of cell types specific to their tissue of origin, such as hematopoietic stem cells in the bone marrow or mesenchymal stem cells in connective tissues. Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) are adult somatic cells that have been genetically reprogrammed to an embryonic stem cell-like pluripotent state.

The study of stem cells holds significant promise for regenerative medicine. Researchers are exploring their use in treating a variety of diseases and injuries by replacing damaged or diseased cells. Potential applications include treating conditions like Parkinson's disease, diabetes, spinal cord injuries, and heart disease. However, research is ongoing, and challenges related to safety, efficacy, and ethical considerations remain important areas of focus.