stem cells

Question 1

what are stem cells

Answer 1

undifferentiated cells that can divide and develop into specialised cell types

Question 2

what are the 2 main properties of stem cells

Answer 2

1. self renewal- they can divide and produce more stem cells
2. potency- they can differentiate into different cell types

Question 3

what are the different types of stem cells based on their potency

Answer 3

totipotent
pluripotent
multipotent

Question 4

totipotent

Answer 4

can develop into any cell type

Question 5

pluripotent

Answer 5

can develop into any body cell, but not placenta

Question 6

multipotent

Answer 6

can develop into a limited range of cells

Question 7

unipotent

Answer 7

can develop into one one type of cell

Question 8

where are the embryonic stem cells found

Answer 8

in the inner cell mass of a blastocyst

Question 9

what are the adult stem cells and where are they found

Answer 9

multipotent cells are found in bone marrow, skin and brain
- used for tissue repair

Question 10

what are induced pluripotent cells

Answer 10

adult cells reprogrammed to behave like pluripotent stem cells

Question 11

what are the medical uses of stem cells

Answer 11

bone marrow transplants
regenerative medicine
diabetes treatement
drug tesitng

Question 12

what are the ethical issues with using embryonic stem cells

Answer 12

• destruction of embryos
• consent issues

Question 13

what are the advantages of adult stem cells over embryonic stem cells

Answer 13

1. no ethical issue
2. lower risk of rejection
3. easier to control differentiation

Question 14

why do stem cells have a high potential for treating degenerative diseases

Answer 14

they can help replace damaged or lost cells, treating parkinsons, alzheimers

Question 15

which stage do totipotent cells occur in

Answer 15

morula stage