Glossary

Stem cellsCells that have the ability to differentiate into multiple types of cells and make an unlimited number of copies of themselves.Stem cellsCells that have the ability to differentiate into multiple types of cells and make an unlimited number of copies of themselves. that can undergo self-renewalWhen stem cells self-renew, they divide to make identical copies of themselves.self-renewalWhen stem cells self-renew, they divide to make identical copies of themselves. and differentiationThe process by which stem cells transform into specific, specialized cell types with distinct functions and features.differentiationThe process by which stem cells transform into specific, specialized cell types with distinct functions and features. to become any cell type found in the body. The two major types used in research are embryonic stem cellsPluripotent stem cells that give rise to every cell type in the adult body. They are derived from the inner cell mass of a blastocyst.embryonic stem cellsPluripotent stem cells that give rise to every cell type in the adult body. They are derived from the inner cell mass of a blastocyst. and induced pluripotent stem cellsiPSCs are adult cells — typically skin or blood — that have been reprogrammed in the lab to behave like stem cells, giving them the potential to become any of the cell types found in all major tissues in the body. Because they are made from a patient's own cells, they carry that person's unique genetic code, making them a powerful tool for disease research and personalized medicineinduced pluripotent stem cellsiPSCs are adult cells — typically skin or blood — that have been reprogrammed in the lab to behave like stem cells, giving them the potential to become any of the cell types found in all major tissues in the body. Because they are made from a patient's own cells, they carry that person's unique genetic code, making them a powerful tool for disease research and personalized medicine.