Stem cells are the unlikely subject of raging public controversy. Some say the tiny human cells could develop into a miraculous new kind of medical treatment and unlock some of the major mysteries of life; others are deeply concerned about the religious and ethical implications of using cells taken from human embryos. To understand the predicament of stem cell research, it is important to understand the scientific background for this type of research. .
Every human being is created from stem cells. A stem cell is a cell that has the ability to divide for indefinate periods "often throughout the life of the organism. Stem cells can be used strictly for repairing other damaged cells, such as blood, skin, and other organs. However, when stem cells mature, they become specialized stem cells or organs. Stem cells at there mature state form heart, muscle, or even brain cells. The National Institute of Health defines the embryonic stem cells have special properties:.
Derived from the inner cell mass.
Capable of undergoing an unlimited number of symmetrical divisions without differentiating.
Exhibit and maintain a stable, normal complement of chromosomes.
Pluripotent ES cells can give rise to differentiated cell types that are derived from all three primary germ layers of the embryo.
Capable of colonizing the germ line and giving rise to egg or sperm cells.
Once the stem cells are mature, they can only create one certain type of cell, which is why scientist desire early embryo cells called blastocyst. Blastocysts are the most adaptable cells made by humans and can only be found in humans for the first four to five weeks. .
Because these special stem cells [blastocyst] are so flexible, they could possibly be used to develop new cells that would replace damaged cells by injuries or neurological diseases, such as Parkinson's or Alzheimer's, or common ailments like heart disease or kidney failure.