Stem Cells Flashcards
What does differentiate mean?
Change/Adapt to perform a particular function.
What is a stem cell?
A cell that can differentiate to become a specialised cell.
What are the two types of human stem cells?
Embryonic and adult.
How can an EMBRYONIC stem cell adapt and where are they taken from?
Can differentiate into all types of cells. They are taken from embryos.
How can ADULT stem cells adapt and where are they taken from?
Can only differentiate into certain types of cells e.g. blood cells. They are taken from bone marrow of adults.
How can ADULT stem cells adapt and where are they taken from?
Can only differentiate into certain types of cells e.g. blood cells. They are taken from bone marrow of adults.
What are some ADVANTAGES of EMBRYONIC stem cells?
- Painless
- Treat many diseases
- Become any type of cell
- Can be created in labs or donated embryos
What are some ADVANTAGES of ADULT stem cells?
- No ethical issue
- Can still treat some diseases
- Procedure is (relatively) safe
- Reliable technique
- Quick recovery
What are some DISADVANTAGES of EMBRYONIC stem cells?
- Destroys embryo
- Can cause cancer
- Unreliable
What are some DISADVANTAGES of ADULT stem cells?
- Risk of infection
- Can only treat a few diseases
- Procedure can be painful
