Stem cells are defined as cells that have the potential to regenerate tissue over a lifetime. They are believed to have the ability to divide without limit and to give rise to specialized cells. Stem cell research holds the promise of helping us better understand the most fundamental processes of cellular specialization and human development.
These cells have the unique potential to differentiate into any human cell type and offer real hope of life-affirming treatments for diabetes, damaged heart tissue, arthritis, Parkinson's, ALS and spinal cord injuries, to name but a few examples. There is also the possibility that these cells could be used to create more complex organ structures that could replace diseased vital organs, such as kidneys, livers, or even hearts.