Stem cells and regenerative medicine

Abstract

Stem cells and regenerative medicine is a rapidly progressing science that addresses the use of stem cells via cell therapy for human diseases. Successful use of stem cells in regenerative medicine depends on two important features of stem cells; a) stem cells can proliferate and self renew almost indefinitely, and b) they can differentiate into specialized cell types that make up tissues such as pancreas, heart, liver, blood, and others. Further, stem cells can be engineered to replace worn-out cells and to regenerate damaged tissue. These advances open up new ways of stem cell based treatment through regenerative medicine and tissue engineering. © 2008 Humana Press.