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Stem Research On Stem Cell Research

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Stem Cell Research Jason Bernard BIOL-10000 July 26, 2015 Introduction In this essay, I hope to analyze both sides of the debate, and also learn more about the topic and share that information. Prior to researching this topic, I feel that any research that can help prevent or cure diseases, than the research should receive full funding and support. What Are Stem Cells? Stem cells were first discovered in the 1960s by Dr. James Till and Dr. Ernest McCulloch, professors at the University of Toronto. (Panno, 2010) Stem cells are microscopic cells that are essentially blank or unspecialized cells that can divide through mitosis. (“Frequently Asked Questions”) Stem cells can then become specialized cells through plasticity. A lot of what is currently known about stem cells is from studying rodents. Scientists use what they have learned from working on these animals to better learn how stem cells work. (Panno, 2010). There are two main types of stem cells that are used for research purposes, adult stem cells and embryonic stem cells. (Crosta) Adult Stem Cells Adult stem cells are found in various places throughout the body. Adult stem cells will begin to divide once exposed to disease or muscle injury. These cells have been used for many years now, from stem cells that were found in bone marrow. Scientists first found that two kinds of stem cells existed in bone marrow. The first type, called hematopoietic stem cells, are able to differentiate to different types of blood

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