• Question: what is a Human Embryonic Stem Cell? :)

    Asked by helenabrown to Sharon on 16 Mar 2010 in Categories: .
    • Photo: Sharon Sneddon

      Sharon Sneddon answered on 16 Mar 2010:

      Hello! Thanks for your question!
      Human embryonic stem cells are special cells that are taken from a day 5 human embryo. The reason they are so special is that they can turn into any of the 300 different cell types in the body.
      Stem cells are called unspecialised cells. They divide to give further stem cells but they can also produce more specialised cells such as muscle, cartilage, pancreas, nerves or blood. Stem cells give rise to all the tissues of the body during development and allow for growth and repair in the adult.
      Because they can do this, they are really versatile and could be potentially used to treat and possibly cure a variety of diseases and injuries including Parkinson’s disease, stroke and diabetes. We get the embryos from patients having IVF treatment and who no longer want their embryos for their treatment.
      I hope that makes sense! If not, let me know and I can explain some more!!!

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