Stem cells have properties of self-renewal and differentiation. Stem cells can be acquired from both embryo and adult body organs. They have also got the ability to differentiate (potency) and to take over the characteristics of any cell type in the body (Plasticity). Because of these efficient characteristics, they can be used to enhance the livestock production by means of chimera production, gene targeting, nuclear transfer, animal cloning, gene transfer and genetic engineering. Also, stem cells can be used to correct various clinical conditions which include cardiac defects, spinal injuries, repairs in tendon, ligament and cartilage and wound healing. This review outlines the properties, origin, classification and plasticity of stem cells. | Potential applications of stem cells in livestock production
