Stem Cells Flashcards
What are stem cells?
Undifferentiated cells that are able to differentiate into specialized cell types
Where are adult stem cells primarily located in humans?
Bone marrow, skin, brain
What state do adult stem cells remain in until activated?
Non-dividing state
What activates adult stem cells?
Disease or tissue injury
Why are stem cells considered important?
They cure disease
Give examples of diseases that can be treated with stem cells.
- Diabetes
- Spinal cord injuries
- Heart damage after an attack
- Eye conditions
What is a significant ethical concern regarding embryonic stem cells?
Destroys embryos
What is a key characteristic of embryonic stem cells?
Can differentiate into a large number of cells
What is a common method for collecting adult stem cells?
Simple operation
Where are plant stem cells primarily located?
Meristem
What are some benefits of plant stem cells?
- Disease resistant
- Prevent rare species from going extinct
- Cheap, quick production of food
Fill in the blank: Stem cells can be activated by _______.
disease or tissue injury
True or False: Adult stem cells can differentiate into a large number of cell types.
False
What does ‘apical’ refer to in the context of plant stem cells?
The tip or growing sections of the plant
What is a potential application of stem cells mentioned in the text?
Cure for Alzheimer’s
What is a source of embryonic stem cells?
Can be collected early
Fill in the blank: Stem cells are the most numerous in _______.
embryos
What is a unique feature of meristem cells in plants?
Found in growing sections of the plant
