2.3 Stem cells Flashcards
1
Q
Define stem cell
A
An unspecialized cell that can be divided by cell division to produce identical daughter cells and differentiate to form different specialized cells
2
Q
What happens when a cell differentiates and becomes specialized
A
The cell loses its ability to form alternative cell types
3
Q
What are the 2 key qualities of a stem cell
A
- Can continuously divide and replicate
- Has the capacity to differentiate into specialized cells
4
Q
How many types of stem cells are there?
A
4
5
Q
What is a totipotent stem cell
A
A stem cell that can differentiate into embryonic and extraembryonic cell types
6
Q
What is a pluripotent stem cell
A
A stem cell that is a descendant of totipotent cells - can differentiate into almost all cell types
They’re embryonic stem cells
7
Q
What is a multipotent stem cell
A
