Stem cells - they can potentialy become various cells, in stem cell research how do we control the process?

What Im trying to ask is if an embylogical stem cell can become any type of cell, or an adult (eg- heamopetic stem cell) can diff to WBC, RBC etc- how do scientist use these cells to grow into the cells they want to use for that particular reason?


(Another way to put it -as opposed to getting a haemopetic stem cell for example and seeking a a RBC, how do scientist make sure it doesnt become a WBC?)


Thanks :)Stem cells - they can potentialy become various cells, in stem cell research how do we control the process?
You expose it to the various different growth factors that stimulate RBC (or WBC) maturation to change it into a precursor along the desired cell line.





For example if you wanted a RBC precursor you would use Erythropoietin





If you wanted a WBC precursor you would use GCSF or a related colony stimulating factor