The new stem cell biology: something for everyone

Mol Pathol. 2003 Apr;56(2):86-96. doi: 10.1136/mp.56.2.86.

Abstract

The ability of multipotential adult stem cells to cross lineage boundaries (transdifferentiate) is currently causing heated debate in the scientific press. The proponents see adult stem cells as an attractive alternative to the use of embryonic stem cells in regenerative medicine (the treatment of diabetes, Parkinson's disease, etc). However, opponents have questioned the very existence of the process, claiming that cell fusion is responsible for the phenomenon. This review sets out to provide a critical evaluation of the current literature in the adult stem cell field.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Cell Differentiation
  • Cell Transformation, Neoplastic / pathology
  • Genetic Therapy / methods
  • Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation
  • Hematopoietic Stem Cells / cytology
  • Humans
  • Neoplastic Stem Cells / pathology
  • Stem Cell Transplantation*
  • Stem Cells / cytology*