Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells (iPSCs) are a type of stem cell that can be generated directly from adult cells. Scientists reprogram these cells by introducing specific genes, allowing them to revert to a pluripotent state, meaning they can develop into almost any cell type in the body. This process offers a way to create patient-specific cells for research and therapy.
iPSCs hold great potential for regenerative medicine, as they can be used to study diseases, test drugs, and develop new treatments. Unlike embryonic stem cells, iPSCs do not involve the use of embryos, addressing ethical concerns while still providing valuable insights into cellular development and function.