Stem cells: hype or hope?
Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 22, 2026

Isolation and Culture of Neural Crest Stem Cells from Human Hair Follicles
Published on: April 6, 2013
Gesine Paul1, Jia-Yi Li, Patrik Brundin
1Section for Neuronal Survival, Wallenberg Neuroscience Center, Lund University, BMC A10, 221 84 Lund, Sweden. gesine.paul@mphy.lu.se
Abstract:
Stem cells undergo self-renewal and differentiate into multiple lineages of mature cells. The identification of stem cells in diverse adult tissues and the findings that human embryonic stem cells can be proliferated and differentiated has kindled the imagination of both scientists and the public regarding future stem cell technology. These cells could constitute an unlimited supply of diverse cell types that can be used for cell transplantation or drug discovery. The new options raise several fundamental ethical issues. This review gives an overview of the scientific basis underlying the hope generated by stem cell research and discusses current ethical and funding regulations.
Related Concept Videos
Adult Stem Cells
Embryonic Stem Cells
Source And Potency Of Stem Cells
Stem Cell Culture
Stem Cell Therapy for Tissue Regeneration
Types of Stem Cells used in Stem Cell Therapy
The two main cell types that...
Embryonic Stem Cells
ES cells are grown in a culture medium where they can divide indefinitely, creating ES cell lines. Under certain conditions, ES cells can differentiate, either spontaneously into a variety of...

