sciencesourceimages: Image SS2618416 (Human Embryonic Stem Cells) The center cluster of cells, color
sciencesourceimages: Image SS2618416 (Human Embryonic Stem Cells) The center cluster of cells, colored blue, shows a colony of Human Embryonic Stem Cells. These cells, which arise at the earliest stages of development, are capable of differentiating into any of the 220 types of cells in the human body and can provide access to cells for basic research and potential therapies. Stem cells have the remarkable potential to develop into many different cell types in the body during early life and growth. In addition, in many tissues they serve as a sort of internal repair system, dividing essentially without limit to replenish other cells as long as the person or animal is still alive. Learn More About Stem Cells Most embryonic stem cells are derived from embryos that develop from eggs that have been fertilized in vitro - in an in vitro fertilization clinic - and then donated for research purposes with informed consent of the donors. They are not derived from eggs fertilized in a woman’s body. Research is underway to develop various sources for stem cells, and to apply stem cell treatments for neurodegenerative diseases and conditions, diabetes, heart disease, and other conditions. © NIGMS / Clay Glennon / University of Wisconsin-Madison / Science Source -- source link