1. Cell Biology (cell differentiation) Flashcards
What is differentiation?
The process of a cell becoming specialised
What are stem cells?
Undifferentiated cells that can differentiate into many cell types (eg. embryonic stem/adult stem cells)
What are undifferentiated cells?
Cells that have not become specialised however still have the potential to differentiate into other cell types
What are differentiated cells?
Cells that are specialised and can no longer become other cell types (adult cells)
What can mature animal’s cells differentiate into?
Repairing and replacing cells, such as red blood cells
When can plant cells differentiate into many cell types?
Many types retain the ability to differentiate throughout their lifetime
When can animal cells differentiate into many cell types?
at an early stage and lose this ability as they become adults
What are meristem cells?
- They are plant stem cells found in the tips of the roots + shoots
- They will retain the ability to differentiate into any cell type throughout their lifetime
What are the pros of stem cells?
- They can grow organs/working cells
- They can cure/aid diseases
- They can grow working neurons for paralysis
What are the cons of stem cells?
- They are expensive
- There are religious and ethical issues surrounding them about life
- They have a small success rate
- They are slow
How many stem cells does an embryo have that can differentiate?
Many stem cells that can differentiate
How many stem cells does a child have that can differentiate?
Some stem cells that can differentiate
How many stem cells does an adult have that can differentiate?
Few stem cells that can differentiate
Why are stem cells from meristem in plants helpful?
Rare species can be cloned to protect from extinction
What is the potential risk of using stem cells?
- Viral infections can be transferred
- Some people have ethical or religious objections
