stem cells Flashcards
what is a stem cell
a cell that can replicate itself or differentiate into many cell types
why can a stem cell differentiate
they are undifferentiated
what is potency
the degree to which stem cells can differentiate
what does totipotent mean
The cell can differentiate into any cell type
what does pluripotent mean
The cell can differentiate into many cell types
what does multipotent mean
The cell can differentiate into only some cell types
what does Oligopotent mean
The cell can differentiate into only a few cell types
what does unipotent mean
The cell can differentiate into only one cell type
What are the two key features of stem cells
1- self renewal in an unspecialised state
2- potency
What are the types of stem cells
Embryonic, somatic and induced pluripotent
Embryonic stem cells
Are obtained from embryos and can differentiate into embryos. Pluripotent
Somatic stem cells
Obtained from bone marrow, brain, skin, liver and blood. Differentiate into various types from the organ they are derived from. Multipotent
Induce pluripotent stem cells
Some skin cells can be genetically reprogrammed
Ectoderm will become
Nervous system, skin, hair, lining of nose and mouth
Endotherm will become
Digestive tract, liver, pancreas, respiratory tract
