Genre: Information/Explanation

What are stem cells ? Stem cells are the foundation cells for every organ , tissue and cell in the body . They are undifferentiated , " blank " cells that do not yet have a specific function . Under proper conditions , they have the potential to develop into many different cell types in the body . Additionally , stem cells are self-sustaining and can replicate themselves for long periods of time . These unique characteristics make stem cells very promising for supplying cells to treat debilitating diseases like Alzheimer's disease , cancer , Parkinson's disease , type-1 diabetes , spinal cord injury , stroke , burns , heart disease , osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis . Research is now being conducted on both adult and embryonic stem cells to determine the characteristics and potential of both to cure disease .