Abstract
A stem cell is defined as an unspecialized cell that can both self-renew and give rise to differentiated progeny. In particular stem cells can divide to generate at least one cell that retains the stem cell identity, and can also give rise to progenitors, or precursor cells, which typically differentiate into tissue-specific cell types. Stem cells are derived from embryonic, fetal, or adult tissue and are broadly categorized accordingly. Recent advances in regenerative medicine support the development of new and emerging areas of integrative research including stem cells, gene- and cell-based therapies, and tissue engineering. The type of human cells, the use of growth factors and cytokines to stimulate the production, and growth and function of cells, along with the cell sources, have shown a significant therapeutic impact to date and represent a rapidly grown area of regenerative medicine.
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Roubelakis, M.G. (2019). Introduction to Stem Cell Principles and Biology. In: Gazouli, M., Theodoropoulos, G. (eds) Digestive System Diseases. Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine. Humana Press, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-11965-2_2
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-11965-2_2
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