Angelo Butera

BME 181

February 19th 2013

What are stem cells?

Will self-renew – number of stem cells stays constant

Can differentiate Adult stem cells vs

embryonic stem cells

Current Controversies Embryonic stem cells Is harvesting them ethical? Should they be harvested at birth? Umbilical cord. Adult stem cells can be substituted, but less

effective Mice using adult stem cells do not live long Embryonic stem cells can cause cancer –

uncontrolled differentiation.

Leprosy

Scientists researching the way leprosy spreads

Targets Schwann cells – help repair nerves after damage

Nerve cells get damaged, causes characteristic leprosy syndromes.

Schwann cells to “stem cells” to muscle cells, other cells that move around the body

Implications

Catch leprosy early – check for presence of stem cells

Revert adult cells to stem cells, almost unlimited source

Eliminate stigma associated with stem cell research

Do other diseases manipulate cells the same way?

Stem Cell Uses Regrow organs Spinal cord/nerve injuries Brain damage Possibly fully regrow arms/legs Diabetes, blindness, deafness Pretty much anything you can think of

Drawbacks

Still don’t fully understand mechanics Likely to be prohibitively expensive Improper use can cause cancer Can it be weaponized?

References "Cell - Reprogramming Adult Schwann Cells to Stem Cell-

like Cells by Leprosy Bacilli Promotes Dissemination of Infection." Cell - Reprogramming Adult Schwann Cells to Stem Cell-like Cells by Leprosy Bacilli Promotes Dissemination of Infection. N.p., n.d. Web. 19 Feb. 2013.

Costandi, Mo. "Leprosy Spreads by Reprogramming Nerve Cells into Migratory Stem Cells." The Guardian. Guardian News and Media, 28 Nov. 0017. Web. 19 Feb. 2013.

"Frequently Asked Questions." Info Center [Stem Cell Information]. N.p., n.d. Web. 19 Feb. 2013.

"Stem Cell Treatments." Wikipedia. Wikimedia Foundation, 02 June 2013. Web. 19 Feb. 2013.