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Stem cells - 13 years since their isolation, is there any proven benefit to the patient?

Paula Sommer

Abstract


Stem cells are seen as the ‘magic bullet’; while this may be true, their efficacy and safety in patients has not yet been established unequivocally. This article summarises the different types of stem cells and gives an overview of their advantages and disadvantages, their use, and potential uses in the patient setting.

Author's affiliations

Paula Sommer, University of KwaZulu-Natal

Full Text

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Keywords

Embryonic stem cells, adult stem cells; iPS cells

Cite this article

South African Medical Journal 2011;101(12):868.

Article History

Date submitted: 2011-10-18
Date published: 2011-11-25

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