Naked Science Forum

Life Sciences => Cells, Microbes & Viruses => Topic started by: Leigh Knight on 01/11/2009 14:30:05

Title: Are all of our cells replaced every seven years?
Post by: Leigh Knight on 01/11/2009 14:30:05

Leigh Knight  asked the Naked Scientists:
   
I've heard that all cells in our bodies replace themselves such that after seven years, all of them have been replaced.  I've also heard that brain cells do not replace themselves, such that once they are killed, they're gone.  I've also heard that women are born with all of their egg cells. 

Which, if any of these are true?

What do you think?

Title: Are all of our cells replaced every seven years?
Post by: Nizzle on 02/11/2009 14:15:42

They are 'currently' all three generally accepted.

I say currently, because recently more and more evidence points out that there are in fact brain stem cells, and therefore, the brain would have an, albeit limited, potential to renew itself.