Sources of Stem Cells

Where do stem cells come from?

There are several different sources of stem cells. Embryonic stem cells result from embryos which are 3-5 days old, and are the most powerful, as they can become any type of cell in the body. Adult stem cells are found in low numbers in adult tissues, such as bone marrow or fat. They are much more limited with their ability to regenerate new cells within the body compared to the former. Adult stem cells can also be manipulated to have the properties of embryonic stem cells using genetic reprogramming. Perinatal stem cells, which are also known as fetal stem cells, result from amniotic fluid as well as umbilical cord blood. Perinatal stem cells can also develop into specialized cells.