Stem cell turns into billions of blood cells

Stem cells can only divide a limited number of times, but a new method allows them to divide infinitely.

1 Donor donates cells A healthy donor donates stem cells from his bone marrow. The stem cells could potentially develop into any type of blood cell, including red blood cells. 2 Cells divide Scientists insert special genes into the stem cells, which freeze the cells at an early stage. At this stage, the stem cells can divide almost infinitely, allowing scientists to produce plenty of cells. 3 Cells mature Scientists add substances that make the cells mature into red blood cells. Finally, the complete blood cells are extracted via filters and centrifugation.

British scientists have discovered how to massproduce red blood cells for "donated" blood.