Chapter 14 - Cell Differentiation Flashcards
What are Stem Cells ?
Stem cells are very different from other cells. They are not specialized for any particular role, they are capable of repeated division by mitosis, and, given the right conditions, they can differentiate into specialized cells.
Define Stem cell.
An undifferentiated cell of a multicellular organism which is capable of giving rise to any of the different types of body cells.
What is Proliferation?
When cells replicate themselves many times over.
What is Differentiation?
Differentiation is the process by which in specialized cells develop the characteristics and the functions of particular types of cells, such as blood cells, muscle cells, nerve cells and bone cells.
What is a Tissue?
A tissue is a group of cells that have a similar structure and which work together go perform a common function.
What is a Totipotent stem cell?
It has the potential to create any type of cell necessary for embryonic development, including the embryo itself, and all of the membranes associated with embryonic development.
How are Twins formed?
Identical twins are formed when two Totipotent cells separate and develop into two genetically identical embryos.
What are Pluripotent stem cells?
These cells are capable of giving rise to most, but not all, tissues of an organism; inner cell mass.
What’s a Multipotent stem cell?
These cells are able to give rise to cells that have a specific function.
Eg. Blood stem cells
List the primary germ layers
- Mesoderm
- Ectoderm
- Endoderm
List the three sources of Stem Cells.
- Umbilical Cord Blood and Placenta Stem Cells
- Embryonic Stem Cells
- Adult Stem Cells
Explain Umbilical Cord Blood and Placenta.
These stem cells are obtained after the baby is born and are Multipotent.
Explain Embryonic Stem Cells.
Cultured from frozen embryos that are obtained from in-Vitro fertilization clinics.
Advantage: Pluripotent, more versatile than adult stem cells.
Disadvantage: Patient’s body might reject them and ethical issues.
Explain Adult Stem Cells.
Advantage: Patient’s own cells can be used.
Disadvantage: Most adult stem cells is that they are pre-specialized.
What are Teratogens?
Agents that may kill or harm a developing embryo.
