3.8.2: Stem cells Flashcards
Define stem cells
Undifferentiated cells that can continually divide and become specialised
What are the four type of stem cells?
1) Totipotent
2) Pluripotent
3) Multipotent
4) Unipotent
What type of cells can totipotent produce?
Any type
Where do totipotent cells develop?
Early embryo
Why can totipotent cells specialise?
Only translate part of their DNA
What type of cells can pluripotent produce?
Most cells
Where do pluripotent cells develop?
Embryo
Why can pluripotent cells specialise?
Only part of the DNA translate
What is the issue of using stem cells for research?
Stem cells divide continually and may be out of control creating a tumour
What type of cells can multipotent produce?
Limited number of cells
Where do multipotent cells develop?
Mature mammals
What type of cells can unipotent produce?
One type of cell
Where do unipotent cells develop?
Mature mammal
What can unipotent stem cells differentiate into?
Cardiomycytes
What are induced pluripotent stem cells? (4)
- Lab grown pluripotent cells
- Produced from human somatic cells using certain transcription factors
- Overcomes stem cells ethical issues
- Self renewal - divide indefinitely
