1.4 - Cellular Differentiation Flashcards
What is Differentiation
Differentiation is the process by which unspecialised cells become altered to perform a specific function
What happens during Differentiation
Some genes need for that specific cell are switched on
Genes unnecessary for that specific cell type become switched off
What are meristems
Group of unspecialised plant cells
Regions in plants where growth can take place
Differentiation in multicellular animals
Cells undergo differentiation and become specialised
This means they only express genes that code for proteins required for that specific cell type
What are stem cells
Cells that can reproduce them self while remaining unspecialised/undifferentiated
Differentiate into specialised cells when required for growth and repair
What are embryonic stem cells described as
what does this mean
Pluripotent
Because the cell is capable of differentiating into all of the cell types in the human body
When can embryonic stem cells self renew
In vitro under the right conditions
Where are Adult stem cells found
Skin and red bone marrow
What are adult stem cells described as
What does this mean
Multipotent
Many of their genes have already been switched off which means they can only give rise to a limited range of cell types
Research value of stem cells
Stem cell research provides information on how cell processes such as cell growth, differentiation and gene regulation work
Stem cells can be used as model cells to study how diseases develop and drug testing
Therapeutic value of stem cells
Used to repair damaged or diseased organs such as:
Corneal transplants
Skin grafts
Bone marrow transplants
Why do we have to regulate the use of stem cells
To prevent abuse of the technology and ensure that procedures are carried out properly
