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Stem Cells and Leprosy

Angelo Butera BME 181 February 19 th 2013. Stem Cells and Leprosy. 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?

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Stem Cells and Leprosy

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  1. Angelo Butera BME 181 February 19th 2013 Stem Cells and Leprosy

  2. What are stem cells? • Will self-renew – number of stem cells stays constant • Can differentiate • Adult stem cells vs embryonic stem cells

  3. 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.

  4. 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

  5. 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?

  6. 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

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

  8. 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.

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