2b Cell Structure

Question 1

What are stem cells?

Answer 1

Stem cells are undifferenciated cells that can give rise to many more cells of the same type and from which specialised cells, such as nerve cells or muscle cells, can arise through differentiation. Differentiation is the process of a cell becoming adapted to carry out a specific function.

Question 2

What is an embryonic stem cell?

Answer 2

Embryonic stem cells are found in the blastocyst stage of early human embryos. They have potential to differentiate into any type of cell

Question 3

What are adult stem cells?

Answer 3

They are found in small numbers in adult tissues such as bone marrow. Adult cells can only differentiate into a small number of different types of cells

Question 4

What are some advantages of stem cells in science?

Answer 4

Stem cells have the potential to treat a wide range of diseases and injuries. This can be used to replace damaged cells, regenerate tissues and even cure certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, Parkinson’s disease and heart disease.

Question 5

What are some disadvantages of stem cells in science?

Answer 5

• They can be rejected by the body’s immune system
• Can also be turned into cancer cells at a small risk