What is a limitation of adult stem cells?

Adult stem cells are indeed limited by their rarity within the body. While they are present in various tissues, their numbers are significantly lower compared to other types of cells, such as embryonic stem cells. This scarcity can make it challenging to isolate and expand sufficient quantities of adult stem cells for therapeutic applications or research purposes. Moreover, since they are often found in specific tissues, acquiring them can require invasive procedures, which further complicates their use.

In contrast, embryonic stem cells, for example, are derived from embryos and possess the ability to proliferate indefinitely, providing a more abundant source for research and therapeutic use. Therefore, the limited availability of adult stem cells can hinder progress in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, making their rarity a significant consideration when evaluating their utility in various applications.