induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs)
Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) are a type of stem cell created by reprogramming adult cells, such as skin or blood cells, to revert them to a pluripotent state. This means they can develop into almost any cell type in the body, similar to embryonic stem cells. The process involves introducing specific genes that control cell identity.
iPSCs have significant potential for medical research and therapy. They can be used to study diseases, test new drugs, and even develop personalized treatments. Their ability to generate various cell types makes them a valuable tool in regenerative medicine and tissue engineering.