Adult stem cells

Adult stem cells (also called somatic stem cells) are undifferentiated cells that live in specific tissue 'niches'. Their job is to maintain and repair that tissue throughout your life. Examples include hematopoietic (blood), mesenchymal, intestinal, and neural stem cells. They are usually multipotent, meaning they make the cell types of their home tissue. As you age, these cells decline, which underlies 'stem cell exhaustion'. So preserving and rejuvenating them is a primary goal of longevity and regenerative medicine.

Last reviewed: June 22, 2026

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