Monique
May18-04, 03:20 AM
There are two ways that we can obtain stem cells, one are embryonic stem cells (ESCs) and the other are adult-derived stem cells (ASCs), the latter are less pluripotent though.
It is also possible to get embryonic germ cells (EGCs), which are the ancestors of sperm and egg cells, but I don't see how it is morally any different to use these instead of ESCs.
But why can't we just make them in culture? What is it that makes a stem cell totipotent and how much does imprinting play a role in this?
For those who don't know, stem cells have the ability to differentiate in any kind of tissue, thus opening the door to tissue (or even organ) regeneration.
It is also possible to get embryonic germ cells (EGCs), which are the ancestors of sperm and egg cells, but I don't see how it is morally any different to use these instead of ESCs.
But why can't we just make them in culture? What is it that makes a stem cell totipotent and how much does imprinting play a role in this?
For those who don't know, stem cells have the ability to differentiate in any kind of tissue, thus opening the door to tissue (or even organ) regeneration.