Stem cells: shibboleths of development, part II: Toward a functional definition

Area of Science:

• Developmental Biology
• Cell Biology
• Regenerative Medicine

Background:

• The definition of stem cells lacks universal consensus, with traditional criteria like self-renewal and asymmetric division being critically examined.
• Previous discourse highlighted the need for a functional definition over strict adherence to specific attributes.
• Investigator perspectives on essential stem cell characteristics vary significantly.

Purpose of the Study:

• To further explore and elaborate on the characteristics considered essential for a cell to function as a stem cell.
• To discuss the functional attributes of stem cells in the context of both embryonic development and adult tissue maintenance.
• To encourage further reflection and discourse towards a universally accepted definition of stem cells.

Main Methods:

• Critical review and synthesis of existing literature and investigator viewpoints on stem cell properties.
• Elaboration on functional criteria for stem cell identification.
• Comparative analysis of proposed stem cell attributes.

Main Results:

• Established criteria for stem cell definition remain contested and lack universal acceptance.
• A functional definition of stem cells is proposed as a more viable alternative.
• Diverse investigator opinions highlight the complexity in defining essential stem cell characteristics.

Conclusions:

• A universally accepted and applicable definition for stem cells has not yet been achieved.
• The fundamental understanding of what constitutes a stem cell is still an ongoing scientific pursuit.
• Further research and consensus-building are required to define stem cell identity and function comprehensively.