Why do adult stem cells offer certain advantages over embryonic stem cells?
Adult stem cells are more differentiated, meaning that they have less capacity than embryonic stem cells to grow and divide out of control (and possibly lead to the formation of tumors). Furthermore, adult stem cells are less likely to transform spontaneously into unwanted tissue types. Importantly, the use of adult stem cells overcomes the ethical concerns associated with embryonic stem cells.
Adult stem cells are more differentiated, meaning that they have less capacity than embryonic stem cells to grow and divide out of control (and possibly lead to the formation of tumors). Furthermore, they are less likely to transform spontaneously into unwanted tissue types. Importantly, the use of adult stem cells overcomes the ethical concerns associated with embryonic stem cells.
