What Are the Different Types of Stem Cells?

Stem cells are the undifferentiated cells of the body. They do not have a specific function until they divide and develop into specific cells. They have the ability to differentiate into many kinds of body cells. 

Stem cells are essential for tissue repair, growth, and development. In the medical realm, Understanding the distinct varieties of stem cells is highly valued. It helps understand their potential in treatments. 

Australia has been leading the research and has contributed significantly to the field.  We will see its many contributions in the field of medical therapies and development. 

Embryonic Stem Cells (ESCs)

Embryonic stem cells are pluripotent. Meaning, they can differentiate into nearly every kind of cell in the body. ESCs are derived from early-stage embryos. 

They are usually at the blastocyst phase (about 5–6 days old). They are primarily known for their capacity to change into a variety of cell types.

Research using embryonic stem cells is allowed in Australia.  However, it is subject to tight guidelines. ESC research is covered by the 2002 Research Involving Human Embryos Act. 

These cells are used in regenerative medicine. For example, it helps with treating spinal cord injuries. It is also helpful with diabetes and heart diseases.

However, it is always under the ethical debate. As it is extracted from embryos it continues to be a sensitive issue. There is public opinion and policy surrounding it. 

Adult stem cells (ASCs)

Adult stem cells are sometimes referred to as somatic or tissue-specific stem cells. These are present in the skin, bone marrow, brain, and other bodily tissues. ASCs are multipotent. 

Unlike embryonic stem cells, they can only differentiate into a small number of different cell types. For example, Hematopoietic stem cells are derived from bone marrow.  They have the ability to differentiate into several blood cell types. However, they can not develop into other cell types such as neurons.

Research on adult stem cells has advanced significantly in Australia. This has been seen in hematopoietic stem cells. It is employed in bone marrow transplants and helps to treat blood diseases such as leukaemia. 

Research has been going on to include  ASCs more and more. For example, to treat neurological diseases including Parkinson's disease and heart disease. 

In addition, ASCs don't bring up the same ethical issues as they are harvested from adults. Hence it is less risky and does not put any harm to the donor.

Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells (iPSCs)

These are the cells that are regenerated in laboratories. They are taken from adult cells and created into induced pluripotent stem cells. This method came into being in 2006. 

This method provided a means of producing pluripotent cells without the use of embryos. It was a breakthrough research that completely changed the field of stem cells. 

iPSCs have received praise in Australia for their ability to get over moral dilemmas related to embryonic stem cells.  These cells are flexible and can develop into nearly any kind of cell. Australian scientists are looking into the potential of these for customised treatment. 

It includes regenerating a patient's own cells. It helps in the treatment of muscular dystrophy, diabetes, and Alzheimer's disease. It is also used for drug testing. Meaning they can be used to figure out how the medicine will impact the health of the patient. 

Prenatal stem cells

The placenta, amniotic fluid, and umbilical cord are among the perinatal tissues. Stem cells can be extracted from these tissues. Perinatal stem cells are extremely adaptable. They have the capacity to develop into a variety of cell types, similar to ESCs and ASCs.

Hematopoietic stem cells are found in umbilical cord blood. They have been used to treat blood-related illnesses. We have seen their use in bone marrow transplants too. Australia offers cord blood banking. 

Parents who would like to save their newborn's umbilical cord blood for possible future use can use it. The discovery of perinatal stem cells has raised hopes for the treatment of conditions. We are expecting better treatment for type 1 diabetes and cerebral palsy in children.

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs)

Adult stem cells are known as mesenchymal stem cells. They are frequently found in bone marrow, fat, and tissue from the umbilical cord. These cells can develop into the cells that make fat, cartilage, and bone. They are crucial in controlling immune responses and reducing inflammation.

They are particularly known for their use in regenerative medicine. This ability makes MSCs useful for treating a range of serious diseases. Some of them are autoimmune diseases, osteoarthritis, and certain cancers.

Mesenchymal stem cell treatment is being studied for a number of uses in Australia. For example, studies are being carried out to look into their potential for treating lung conditions.

It can be helpful with cystic fibrosis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Additionally, clinical trials are being undertaken to assess their effectiveness. If found good, they can be used for cardiovascular repair and wound healing.

Cancer Stem cells (CSCs)

These cells are a subset of cancer cells and are known as "cancer stem cells". They share features with normal stem cells. Most notably they are known for their capacity for self-renewal. It is believed that these cells contribute to the spread of cancer.

They play a role in its spread and post-treatment. These cells can stay dormant for long periods. It is believed that they are resistant to common medicines, which usually target quickly dividing cells.

The field of cancer stem cell research in Australia is expanding. There is a special focus as they can contribute to some types of cancers—for example, brain and breast tumours. Understanding CSCs is essential to creating stronger cancer therapies. They will help to target the stem cells that may stimulate the growth of the tumour. 

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