Definition: Stem cells are "generic" cells that have two special properties:
- self-renewal: the ability to divide itself into exact copies numerous times, without changing into specific cell types
- potency: the ability to divide itself into cells that will form specific cell types that will build special tissues in the body (heart, brains, blood).
Examples:
Hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) can create blood cells within your bone marrow. HSCs are used in bone marrow transplants, which can be used to treat leukemia, lymphoma and several hereditary blood disorders.
