Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells (iPS)

Question 1

What are iPS ?

Answer 1

> Pluripotent cells that are produced from unipotent stem cells

Question 2

Uses of iPS?

Answer 2

> Can be almost any body cell that is genetically altered in a lab to make them acquire the characteristics of embryonic stem cells ( a pluripotent cell )

Question 3

Importance of iPS?

Answer 3

> The cell is made to express genes that are not usually expressed

> They are similar to embryonic stem cells that are capable of self renewal - could replace embryonic stem cells which overcomes ethical issues

Question 4

Examples of pluripotent cells in treating human disorders

Answer 4

> B-cells of the pancreas can treat type 1 diabetes

> Blood cells can treat leukaemia

> Skin cells can treat burns and wounds

> Bone cells can treat osteoporosis