Explaining science is hard. Explaining stem cells, with their unique complexities, can be even harder, especially to a non-scientific audience.  

Keep it simple

That’s why, when we received this blog submission from a CIRM SPARK Program intern through UCSF’s High School Intern Program (HIP), we knew we had to share it with our readers: a simple, straightforward explanation of stem cells using Legos.

Before we share the intern’s creative explanation of stem cells, here’s how the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine defines them. These and other key terms can be found on our website:

“The first thing to know about stem cells is that there is not just one kind. Many types of stem cells exist, each with different potential to treat disease. Stem cells include pluripotent, embryonic, adult, and induced pluripotent (iPSC) types.”

“Stem cells can also become other cell types in the body. For example, embryonic stem cells can become many cell types, while adult stem cells, such as those in fat, can become only bone or cartilage.”

SPARK submissions

Now, the fun part! Here’s what the student shared in their prize‑winning SPARK Program blog submission.

If someone asked me what stem cells are in a simple, perhaps figurative way, I would say stem cells are like Legos. Legos are special building blocks in a blank, default state, but they can become something greater and unique on their own later on.  

“Similarly, stem cells are called unspecialized cells because they haven’t yet become a specific type of cell. They can become blood, brain, heart—almost any cell type, with few exceptions. Not all Legos are built the same; some are blocks while others are circular or triangular, which limits what you can build. In the same way, not all stem cells are the same.”

“With the right Legos, you can build a house, a car, or whatever you imagine. Stem cells offer that same kind of possibility, which is why they’re such a promising part of regenerative medicine.”

Bravo!
In addition to creating a clever way to explain stem cells, the student also learned to distinguish the different types and sources of stem cells through hands‑on experience at a world‑renowned institution.

The student added, “My newfound interest in regenerative medicine and stem cells is something I’m excited to pursue with passion and growing knowledge.”

To learn more about CIRM’s internship programs, visit our website. To read another prize-winning blog submission from a SPARK intern, click here.