What are the differences between embryonic and adult stem cells?

Question

Accepted Answer

Basis of differentiation

Adult stem cells

Embryonic stem cells

Definition

Are a type of undifferentiated stem cells which exist in differentiated tissues and organs of adults and adolescents

Are a type of stem cells which are present in the early stages of embryonic development (in early blastocyst stage)

Growth in cell culture

Highly difficult

Relatively easy

Cell potency

Multipotent

Pluripotent

Location

Bone marrow, liver, skin, blood, brain, skeletal muscles

Blastocysts

Obstacles

Must receive patient consent

Presents ethical issues since it involves the degradation of human embryos

Chances of rejection in transplants

Adult stem cells are believed to be less likely to be rejected

Depends on the origin of the tissue

Basis of differentiation	Adult stem cells	Embryonic stem cells
Definition	Are a type of undifferentiated stem cells which exist in differentiated tissues and organs of adults and adolescents	Are a type of stem cells which are present in the early stages of embryonic development (in early blastocyst stage)
Growth in cell culture	Highly difficult	Relatively easy
Cell potency	Multipotent	Pluripotent
Location	Bone marrow, liver, skin, blood, brain, skeletal muscles	Blastocysts
Obstacles	Must receive patient consent	Presents ethical issues since it involves the degradation of human embryos
Chances of rejection in transplants	Adult stem cells are believed to be less likely to be rejected	Depends on the origin of the tissue