ABSTRACT
Embryonic stem cells (ESCs) possess the unique capacity to proliferate indenitely in culture and dierentiate into all somatic cells, thereby serving as a promising cell source for tissue engineering applications, including the treatment of degenerative diseases, traumatic injuries and chronic wounds. ESCs have garnered much public attention, largely via media coverage, due to frequent discussions and changes in legislative regulations at the state and federal levels. Much of the controversy surrounding ESCs stems from the methods used to harvest stem cells, which traditionally results in the destruction of blastocysts during the stages of development prior to implantation.
