Stem Cells

Question 1

what are embryonic stem cells

Answer 1

cells found in the embryo which can differentiate into any kind of cell

Question 2

where are adult stem cells found

Answer 2

bone marrow

Question 3

what are the limitations of adult stem cells

Answer 3

cannot differentiate into any cell, only a few

Question 4

how can adult stem cells be used to treat leukemia

Answer 4

• leukaemia is a bone marrow cancer
• existing cancerous bone marrow is destroyed using radiation
• patient receives a bone marrow transplant from a donor
• stem cells in bone marrow divide to form new bone marrow, may also differentiate to form blood cells

Question 5

what are the problems with a bone marrow transplant

Answer 5

• donor has to be compatible or white blood cells will reject transplant
  -viruses can be passed from donor to patient

Question 6

how can therapeutic cloning be used to treat disease

Answer 6

• an embryo is produced with the same genes as patient
  -embryonic stem cells are them transplanted into patient without being rejected by immune system
  -once inside stem cells can differentiate to replace any cells that aren’t working correctly
• can treat a range of diseases from diabetes to paralysis

Question 7

what are issues with therapeutic cloning

Answer 7

some people have religious or ethical objections

Question 8

where are stem cells found on a plant

Answer 8

roots or buds in meristem tissue, can differentiare into any type of plant tissue at any point in the life of the plant

Question 9

how can meristem tissues be used

Answer 9

• can be produced quick and cheap
  -stop plants from going extinct
• clone crop plants for farmers