Stem cells are categorized depending on their origin and on the kind of working cells they can produce(1): Embryonic Stem Cells are used in the laboratory as a research tool to understand cell development, but are not available for therapy. These can give rise to most cells of a human body; however, embryos must be destroyed when they are collected. This raises important ethical issues.
Cryo-Save has never been, and does not intend to become, involved in the storage or expansion of embryonic stem cells. | | Adult Stem Cells, as the name suggests, are found in adults but also in children. Adult stem cells are also called “committed stem cells”, since they have a more limited range of specialized cells that they can produce. Over time they also lose their vitality. |