What are the sources of stem cells?
1. Embryonic cells – An embryo results from the fertilization of an ovum by the sperm. Embryo cells can become any type of cell in our body. However, embryonic stem cells are not favored as there is a chance of it becoming cancerous. Furthermore, it is unethical to “harvest” embryo from the womb.
2. Mesenchymal stem cells – These stem cells are preferred and can be harvested from the umbilical cord, adipose tissue (fat), dental pulp, and bone marrow. They can mature into the cells for skin, muscles, heart, urogenital system, adipose tissue, bone, cartilage and blood.
*Beware of products claiming to be stem cells in the market.
They are usually one of the following:
1. Animal placenta
2. Organs from animal fetus
2. Human placenta,
These products come in the form of peptides, cell extract, fresh frozen cells, etc. Be reminded that they contain already matured cells of certain parts or organs, not stem cells.
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