B2.9 Stem Cells

Question 1

What can embryonic stem cells do that adult stem cells can’t?

Answer 1

Embryonic stem cells can differentiate to any cell type of human cells. In an adult stem cell, once a cell is differentiated this process is irreversible

Question 2

What are the disadvantages and advantages of embryonic stem cells?

Answer 2

It is unethical as the embryo is killed after 14 days,
Can be used to treat a range of illnesses I.e. Leukaemia,
Has a higher percentage of being successful than bone marrow transplants

Question 3

What are embryonic stem cells?

Answer 3

Cells from human embryos when they are few days old.