Multiple Similarities Discovered Between Cancer Cells and Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells, University of California, Davis (UCD) Study

UC Davis investigators have found new evidence that a promising type of stem cell now being considered for a variety of disease therapies is very similar to the type of cells that give rise to cancer. The findings suggest that although the cells—known as induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs)—show substantial promise as a source of replacement cells and tissues to treat injuries, disease and chronic conditions, scientists and physicians must move cautiously with any clinical use because iPSCs could also cause malignant cancer.