Stem cells can be derived from embryonic stem cells, adult stem cells, or induced pluripotent stem cells. Stem cells are undifferentiated cells that have the potential to differentiate into other cell types. There are several types of stem cells including totipotent, pluripotent, multipotent, oligopotent, and unipotent stem cells, which differ in their ability to differentiate. Stem cells offer potential for treating diseases but also raise ethical issues that require more research.