Specialised cells and stem cells Flashcards
What are specialised cells?
Cells that are specialised to perform a particular function
What are red blood cells specialised to do?
Carry oxygen
What is cell differentiation?
The process by which a cell changes to become specialised for its job
What do we call unspecialised cells?
Stem cells
Where can we find stem cells?
Human embryos, bone marrow and parts of our nose
Which type of stem cell can become any cell?
Embryonic stem cells
Stem cells can be used to produce clones. What are clones?
Genetically identical cells
How can stem cells be used to treat disease?
They can be used to replace faulty cells
What are some problems associated with stem cells?
They may become contaminated with viruses; be rejected by the patients body, and there are ethical issues
