Summary
Using stem cells to replace or repair damaged tissue, such as in bone marrow transplants.
In depth
Haematopoietic stem cell transplants treat leukaemia and sickle cell disease; skin grafts use epidermal stem cells; trials use mesenchymal and iPSC-derived cells. Unproven clinics are a concern.
Cells can be autologous (patient's own) or allogeneic (donor). Challenges: delivery, survival, differentiation control and immune rejection. Regulations guard against unproven treatments.
Example: haematopoietic stem cell transplants have been used since the 1950s.
Frequently asked questions
What is Stem Cell Therapy?
Using stem cells to replace or repair damaged tissue, such as in bone marrow transplants.
Which area of biology covers Stem Cell Therapy, and how advanced is it?
Stem Cell Therapy is one of the 56 topics in Biotechnology & Genomics. It is rated Beginner, so it suits learners who are starting out in biology. Related topics in this area include Gene Therapy, Gene Drives, Gene Therapy Vectors.
Can you give an example of Stem Cell Therapy?
Cultured limbal stem cells restore corneal surface.
What should I learn before Stem Cell Therapy?
Stem Cell Therapy is a Beginner topic, so no earlier topic is required. Other Beginner topics in Biotechnology & Genomics that pair well with it include Biotechnology, Genetic Engineering, Selective Breeding.
What topics are related to Stem Cell Therapy?
The closest topics to Stem Cell Therapy are Gene Therapy, Gene Drives, Gene Therapy Vectors, Cellular Agriculture. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Stem Cell Therapy?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Stem Cell Therapy. To practise the whole of Biotechnology & Genomics, use the Biotechnology & Genomics quiz.
How is Stem Cell Therapy different from Gene Therapy?
Stem Cell Therapy: Using stem cells to replace or repair damaged tissue, such as in bone marrow transplants. Gene Therapy: Treating disease by introducing, repairing or replacing faulty genes in a patient's cells. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study Stem Cell Therapy step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Gene Therapy and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Biotechnology & Genomics quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.