Scientists announce breakthrough in stem cell research

"This is the first study reporting the derivation of a stable stem cell type that shows totipotent-like bi-developmental potential," said researcher Juan Carlos Izpisua Bemonte.

Scientists have already successfully developed pluripotent stem cells in the lab, cells which can form any type of tissue. Totipotent stem cells are the pinnacle for stem cell scientists, however. And for the first time, researchers have found a way to engineer them.

Unlike pluripotent stem cells, totipotent stem cells can form tissues that provide embryonic support, or extra-embryonic tissues, like the placenta and amniotic sac.

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