title: Stem cell myths.
abstract: Stem cells, although difficult to define, hold great promise as tools for understanding development and as therapeutic agents. However, as with any new field, uncritical enthusiasm can outstrip reality. In this review, we have listed nine common myths that we believe affect our approach to evaluating stem cells for therapy. We suggest that careful consideration needs to be given to each of these issues when evaluating a particular cell for its use in therapy. Data need to be collected and reported for failed as well as successful experiments and a rigorous scientific approach taken to evaluate the undeniable promise of stem cell biology.
authors.affiliation: Stem Cell Section, Laboratory of Neurosciences, National Institute on Aging, NIH, 333 Cassell Drive, Room 406A, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA.
authors.forename: Tim
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Magnus
authors.forename: Ying
authors.initials: Y
authors.lastname: Liu
authors.forename: Graham C
authors.initials: GC
authors.lastname: Parker
authors.forename: Mahendra S
authors.initials: MS
authors.lastname: Rao
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D006801:Humans; D008954:Models, Biological; D013234:Stem Cells / Q000145:classification / Q000502:physiology*