Cell Biology 4 Stem Cells Flashcards
What is a stem cell?
A stem cell is an undifferentiated cell which can give rise to more cells of the same type and can differentiate to form other types of cells.
Which part of the body can you usually find adult stem cells?
You can usually find adult stem cells in the bone marrow.
What’s the name of the process in which stem cells can divide?
A stem cell can divide by mitosis to form a tissue of stem cells.
What happens after fertilisation?
After fertilisation the fertilised ovum now undergoes mitosis and forms a ball of cells called an embryo. These then differentiate and form nerve cells, muscle cells etc.
What is an embryo?
An embryo is a ball of unspecialised cells.
How can you destroy your existing bone marrow if you need a donation of new bone marrow?
You can destroy your existing bone marrow by using radiation.
What might happen if you get a bone marrow transplant with a person you are not compatible with? (give two)
If you get a bone marrow transplant from a person you are not compatible with the white blood cells produced from the transplant could attack the patients body, there is also risk that viruses can be passed from the donor to the patient.
What happens when you get a stem cell (bone marrow) transplant
When you get a stem cell transplant, the new bone marrow divides to form more bone marrow through mitosis, they then differentiate and form new cells which the body need. E.g. blood cells.
Where can stem cells be found in the plant?
In plants stem cells can be found in the meristem.
What could we do with meristem stem cells?
We could use the meristem cells to clone plants.
