9 September 2020

Stem cells are basic cells that can transform into any other cells of the body. They are obtained from umbilical cord blood or from embryos cultivated for this purpose. Stem cells have various applications, as they are undifferentiated and can develop into any tissue, including vital organs such as the heart or kidneys. They are suitable for regenerative therapy of damaged organs; when directly applied to these organs, they can take over the functions of dead cells, such as damaged heart cells after a heart attack, and restore the health and functionality of many patients' hearts, even in cases of extensive necrosis. Stem cells can be used for whole-body regeneration, but their acquisition raises ethical questions when taken from embryos.