5.3 Stem Cells

Question 1

Where are stem cells found?

Answer 1

In the human embryo and adult bone marrow

Question 2

What do stem cells do?

Answer 2

Change into all of the different types of cells in the human body, eg. Nerve cells, muscle cells. We say the cells differentiate

Question 3

How do stem cells in embryos differentiate?

Answer 3

The layers of cells in embryos differentiate into all of the cells the body needs

Question 4

What is it called when stem cells change into specialised cells?

Answer 4

Differentiation

Question 5

How do stem cells in adult bone marrow differentiate?

Answer 5

They change into different cells when required, eg. Blood cells

Question 6

How can stem cells be used to treat certain conditions?

Answer 6

If they differentiate into cells needed for replacing damaged cells, eg. Differentiating into nerve cells to treat paralysis

Question 7

What are stem cells?

Answer 7

Unspecialised cells

Question 8

Where is it believed that a small amount of stem cells can be found in the adult human body?

Answer 8

Tissues in your body, like bloods, brain, muscle and liver

Question 9

Name 2 differences between adult and embryo stem cells

Answer 9

• embryo stem cells are compulsory to make up the baby, whereas adult stem cells are only used if your tissues are injured or diseased
• embryo stem cells can form every single cell whereas adult stem cells have a restricted choice of cells