Cell division and stem cells

Question 1

What are the two cell divisions?

Answer 1

Mitosis and Meiosis

Question 2

Describe mitosis and its uses

Answer 2

• 2 genetically identical cells
• same number of chromosomes as parent cell
  Uses: - growth
• replacement of damaged cells
  replacing worn out cells

Question 3

Describe meiosis and its uses

Answer 3

• 4 genetically varied gametes
• contains half the number of chromosomes of the parent cell
  Uses: - reproduction

Question 4

What is the link between mitosis and cancer?

Answer 4

Cancer is a result of uncontrolled mitosis

A group of cells growing without control = a tumor, if cells get into blood they spread and form tumors in other parts of the body

Question 5

What is a stem cell?

Answer 5

Cells that have the ability to differentiate into different type of cells and therefore have the ability for producing cells by mitosis to replace damaged tissue

Question 6

Where are the sources of stem cells in plants?

Answer 6

Meristems (growing in tips of roots and shoots)

Question 7

What are the sources of stem cells in animals?

Answer 7

Bone marrow and embryos

Question 8

What are the uses of stem cell technology?

Answer 8

Leads to treatment or cure for many diseases
Used to replace damaged tissue

Question 9

Advantages of using adult stem cells

Answer 9

• body will accept cells so no rejection issues
• no moral or ethical issues

Question 10

Disadvantages of using adult stem cells

Answer 10

• complicated tech is still being developed
• unable to differentiate as many types of cells

Question 11

Advantages of using embryonic stem cells

Answer 11

• source of cells readily available from IVF treatment

Question 12

Disadvantages of using embryonic stem cells

Answer 12

• some believe destroying embryos means destruction of potential human life.