Stem cells are cells found in most, if not all, multi-cellular organisms. They are characterized by the

ability to renew themselves through mitotic cell division and differentiating into a diverse range of specialized cell types.

Research in the stem cell field grew out of findings by Canadian scientists Ernest A. McCulloch and James E. Till in the 1960s.

Stem cells (center ones) can develop into any cell type. They are valuable as research tools and might, in the future, be used to treat a wide range of diseases. Credit: Judith Stoffer