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Updated: Jul 6, 2026

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Published on: October 14, 2016
On the origin of the term "stem cell"
Miguel Ramalho-Santos1, Holger Willenbring2
1Institute for Regeneration Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143; Diabetes Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143.
The term "stem cell" originated in the late 19th century, linked to germline continuity and blood system origins. These early concepts remain relevant to understanding modern stem cell biology.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Biology
- Cell Biology
- Hematology
Background:
- The concept of stem cells has intrigued scientists for over a century.
- Early research focused on two key embryological questions: germline continuity and the origin of the hematopoietic system.
Purpose of the Study:
- To trace the historical origin and evolution of the term "stem cell."
- To connect the term's historical context to contemporary stem cell biology.
Main Methods:
- Historical literature review.
- Analysis of early embryological and hematological research.
Main Results:
- The term "stem cell" emerged in the late 19th century.
- It was initially applied to cells destined for the germline (Boveri and Häcker) and blood progenitors (Pappenheim, Maximow, Neumann).
Conclusions:
- The foundational meanings of "stem cell" are not mere historical footnotes.
- These original concepts continue to accurately reflect crucial aspects of current stem cell biology.
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