Stem cells are the most primitive cells that can transform into many different types of cells which will eventually become organs. Stem cells are thought to only exist in early development. As adult, all cells have matured and fixed into certain types and forms.
The discovery of stem cells help to repair defective organs. Scientists have been motivated to find if there are ways to revert cells in our body to become the stem cells.
As a dentist, I was so excited to see this news about a group of scientist discovering stem cells in the tooth. Even though the results are on a rat model, I hope that they can continue the research to find out that our human tooth can also grow stem cells. For the link to the scientific article, click here.
Glial Origin of Mesenchymal Stem Cells in a Tooth Model System
Written by Daniel Tee, DDS, MS
Practicing General Dentist Serving the city of Tempe, Chandler, Phoenix, Gilbert, and Mesa in Arizona.
