Risks and ethics of stem cell use
Cell biology • Cell division
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Key concepts
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Definition and types of stem cells
Stem cells are undifferentiated cells capable of differentiating into one or more specialised cell types and of dividing to produce further stem cells . Embryonic stem cells are totipotent or pluripotent and can form many tissues, while adult (somatic) stem cells are multipotent and specialise into a limited range of cell types. Limiting factors include source availability, differentiation potential and regulatory controls on embryo-derived cells.
Social and ethical issues
Use of embryonic stem cells involves using fertilised ova or early embryos, and destruction of these embryos causes moral objections for some groups; this leads to strict regulation or outright bans in some jurisdictions . Use of leftover umbilical-cord stem cells or adult stem cells reduces ethical concerns because no embryo destruction occurs, but ethical debate persists about consent, ownership of biological material and equitable access to therapies. Social consequences include debate over public funding, possible inequalities in access to treatments and differing religious or cultural views that influence policy and patient choices.
Biological risks and safety limits
Cell culture and transplantation create risks because contaminated or infected cells can transfer pathogens to patients; use of infected stem cells causes viral infection in recipients if screening and sterile techniques fail . Use of donor stem cells without genetic matching causes immune rejection, which leads to graft failure or the need for immunosuppression that increases infection risk. Long-term risks include uncontrolled cell growth or tumour formation if differentiation control fails. Limiting factors for safe use include donor screening, sterile cell handling, genetic matching or therapeutic cloning, and long-term monitoring.
Practical benefits and evaluation
Stem cell therapies can replace damaged tissues, restore function and reduce dependence on organ transplants or lifelong treatments; these benefits drive research into conditions such as spinal injuries and degenerative diseases. Practical evaluation compares severity and prevalence of target diseases against the likelihood and severity of harms from therapy, the quality of evidence from trials, and regulatory safeguards. Risk mitigation strategies-for example using a patient’s own cells (autologous therapy) or rigorous pathogen screening-reduce biological risks but increase complexity, cost and time to deliver treatments .
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