Stem-cell
noun, Cell Biology.
1.
a cell that upon division replaces its own numbers and also gives rise to cells that differentiate further into one or more specialized types, as various B cells and T cells.
noun
1.
(histology) an undifferentiated cell that gives rise to specialized cells, such as blood cells
stem cell n.
An unspecialized cell that gives rise to a specific specialized cell, such as a blood cell.
stem cell
An unspecialized cell found in fetuses, embryos, and some adult body tissues that has the potential to develop into specialized cells or divide into other stem cells. Stem cells from fetuses or embryos can develop into any type of differentiated cells, while those found in mature tissues develop only into specific cells. Stem cells can potentially be used to replace tissue damaged or destroyed by disease or injury, but the use of embryonic stem cells for this purpose is controversial. Also called progenitor cell.
stem cell definition
A cell from which a variety of other cells can develop through the process of cellular differentiation. Stem cells can produce only a certain group of cells (as with skin stem cells) or any cell in the body (as with embryonic stem cells).
Note: A major controversy involves the question of whether nonembryonic stem cells should be used for medical purposes.
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- Stem-christie
noun, Skiing. 1. a turn made by stemming one ski and then bringing the other parallel to it during the turn.
- Stem-duchy
noun 1. (in medieval Germany) any of the independent duchies corresponding in part to areas of tribal settlement and preserving some elements of tribal social structure.
- Stem-end rot
[stem-end] /ˈstɛmˌɛnd/ noun, Plant Pathology. 1. a disease of fruits characterized by discoloration, shriveling, and decay of the stem and adjacent parts of the fruit and caused by any of several fungi of the genera Diplodia and Phomopsis.
- Stem ginger
noun 1. the choice pieces of the underground stem of the ginger plant, which are crystallized or preserved in syrup and eaten as a sweetmeat