However, scientists don't yet know whether using altered adult cells will cause adverse effects in humans. This new technique may allow use of reprogrammed cells instead of embryonic stem cells and prevent immune system rejection of the new stem cells. By altering the genes in the adult cells, researchers can reprogram the cells to act similarly to embryonic stem cells. Scientists have successfully transformed regular adult cells into stem cells using genetic reprogramming. For example, adult stem cells are currently being tested in people with neurological or heart disease.Īdult cells altered to have properties of embryonic stem cells. This research has led to early-stage clinical trials to test usefulness and safety in people. For instance, bone marrow stem cells may be able to create bone or heart muscle cells. However, emerging evidence suggests that adult stem cells may be able to create various types of cells. For instance, researchers thought that stem cells residing in the bone marrow could give rise only to blood cells. Until recently, researchers thought adult stem cells could create only similar types of cells. Compared with embryonic stem cells, adult stem cells have a more limited ability to give rise to various cells of the body. These stem cells are found in small numbers in most adult tissues, such as bone marrow or fat. Tests could show whether the new drug had any effect on the cells and whether the cells were harmed.Īdult stem cells. Techniques to program cells into specific cells are under study.įor instance, nerve cells could be generated to test a new drug for a nerve disease. For the testing of new drugs to be accurate, the cells must be programmed to acquire properties of the type of cells targeted by the drug. New areas of study include the effectiveness of using human stem cells that have been programmed into tissue-specific cells to test new drugs. This type of testing will most likely first have a direct impact on drug development for cardiac toxicity testing. Before using investigational drugs in people, researchers can use some types of stem cells to test the drugs for safety and quality. Test new drugs for safety and effectiveness. Researchers continue to advance the knowledge on stem cells and their applications in transplant and regenerative medicine. Stem cells may have the potential to be grown to become new tissue for use in transplant and regenerative medicine. People who might benefit from stem cell therapies include those with spinal cord injuries, type 1 diabetes, Parkinson's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Alzheimer's disease, heart disease, stroke, burns, cancer and osteoarthritis.
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