stem cell

noun, Cell Biology
1.
a cell that upon division replaces its own numbers and also gives rise to cells that differentiate further into one or more specialized types, as various B cells and T cells.
Origin
1880-85
Examples from the web for stem cells
  • stem cells from unfertilized eggs may be too tightly regulated.
  • stem cells placed in a scaffolding generate a brand new rat heart outside the body.
  • But conceptive gels and stem cells could bring some virility back.
British Dictionary definitions for stem cells

stem cell

noun
1.
(histology) an undifferentiated cell that gives rise to specialized cells, such as blood cells
stem cells in Medicine

stem cell n.
An unspecialized cell that gives rise to a specific specialized cell, such as a blood cell.

stem cells in Science
stem cell  
An unspecialized cell found in fetuses, embryos, and some adult body tissues that has the potential to develop into specialized cells or divide into other stem cells. Stem cells from fetuses or embryos can develop into any type of differentiated cells, while those found in mature tissues develop only into specific cells. Stem cells can potentially be used to replace tissue damaged or destroyed by disease or injury, but the use of embryonic stem cells for this purpose is controversial. Also called progenitor cell.
stem cells in Culture

stem cell definition


A cell from which a variety of other cells can develop through the process of cellular differentiation. Stem cells can produce only a certain group of cells (as with skin stem cells) or any cell in the body (as with embryonic stem cells).

Note: A major controversy involves the question of whether nonembryonic stem cells should be used for medical purposes.