Stem Cells

Question 1

Pluripotent stem cells

Answer 1

able to give rise to many types of specialised cells, but not placental cells.

Question 2

Toti potent stem cells

Answer 2

can give rise to all / any types of specialised cells, including placental cells.

Question 3

Stem cell definition

Answer 3

An undifferentiated cell that can give rise to specialised cells that can divide to provide more stem cells.

Question 4

Describe the stages of a stem cell differentiating into a specialised cell.

Answer 4

1. The stem cell receives a signal
2. The specific gene is activated
3. RNA polymerase binds to the promoter on DNA
4. Transcription occurs to produce mRNA
5. Translation occurs to make a specific protein
6. Relate protein to exam question (e.g haemoglobin if specialised cell is a red blood cell).