Ask a Question
or
Create a Poll
  1. Home /
  2. Questions /
  3. Science
  4. / Biology
  5. / Human Biology
  6. / Medical Research

by Angie B on November 9th, 2004

Angie B

Question

Help answer this question below.

Are stem cells found in the umbilical cord and placenta? If so, why aren't these harvested instead?

Share:
Other

Answers. Showing one answer.

  • by osita70 on November 10th, 2004

    osita70

    Stem cells have the remarkable potential to develop into many different cell types in the body. Serving as a sort of repair system for the body, they can theoretically divide without limit to replenish other cells as long as the person or animal is still alive. When a stem cell divides, each new cell has the potential to either remain a stem cell or become another type of cell with a more specialized function, such as a muscle cell, a red blood cell, or a brain cell.

    A fertilized egg is considered totipotent, meaning that its potential is total; it gives rise to all the different types of cells in the body. All cells within the early embryo are totipotent up until the 16 cell stage or so. After that, they become pluripotent. Pluripotent stem cells can give rise to any type of cell in the body except those needed to develop a fetus. Stem cells that can give rise to multiple different cell types are generally called multipotent.

    Stem cells derived from umbilical cord blood are called hematopoietic (blood forming) stem cells. These stem cells have the potential to form any type of <b>blood related</b> cell. They are currently being used to treat people who suffer from leukemia, lymphona, various anemias, and other blood and bone marrow diseases. They are also being studied for future applications in the field of cancer and diseases of the immune system.

    In summary, unlike embryonic stem cells, which can be potentially be used to form any type of tissue in the body, the cord blood stem cells can only be used to form certain types of cells and tissues and have a more limited application.

    Comments
    • Like
    • Report

    No comments. Post one | Permalink

Want to attach an image to your answer? Click here.

Did this answer your question? If not, then ask a new question or create a poll.

More Questions. Additional questions in this category.

You're reading Are stem cells found in the umbilical cord and placenta? If so, why aren't these harvested instead?

Follow us on Facebook!

Related Ads

Related Questions

Professionally Researched

Answerbag

a Demand Media company