Human embryonic stem cell (gold) growing on a layer of supporting cells (fibroblasts). Stem cells are derived from very early embryos and can be either grown to stay in their original state or triggered to form almost any type of human cell. The fibroblasts provide special factors that maintain the stem cells in their original state. The stem cell appears to be grasped by the underlying fibroblast. Stem cell research could lead to cures for many diseases such as Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease and diabetes, where cells are damaged or absent.
Colour-enhanced scanning electron micrograph by Annie Cavanagh and Dave McCarthy.
Stem cells were grown by Jessica Cooke in Stephen Minger's labs at King's College London.
B0006219

See also

Stem cell use in medicine – too fast too soon? ('Wellcome Science' feature, 3 May 2006)