Stem Cells and Cloning: Advances and Applications

Tissue Stem Cells

Tissue stem cells, also known as somatic or adult stem cells, are usually multipotent and can differentiate into a limited number of adult and specialized cell types. They are found in low numbers in adult tissues and are considered as a rare population of cells present throughout the postnatal life. These cells produce mature cell types that facilitate generating the tissue in which they reside. They also maintain tissue homeostasis by replacing cells lost due to continuous tissue turnover or injury. Tissue stem cells can be isolated from wide variety of sources such as bone marrow, umbilical cord and cord blood, adipose tissue, and dental pulp. This Article Collection highlights hematopoietic stem cells and mesenchymal stromal cells, which have shown great promise in regenerative medicine and dentistry.