Stem cells Flashcards
1
Q
Stem cells ? can derive —?
A
non-specialist, undifferentiated cells
many types of differentiated cells to carry out specific functions
2
Q
Stem cells are capable of
A
self-renewal, but some are able to produce a wider range of cell types than others.
3
Q
Types of stem cells
A
Totipotent: Capable of producing any cell type
Pluripotent: Capable of producing any cell within a major lineage (ectoderm, endoderm, mesoderm)
Multi-potent: capable of producing a restricted set of related cells
4
Q
Transcription factors
A
bind to specific regions of DNA and turn on specific genes
5
Q
Repressors
A
bind to specific regions of DNA and inhibit transcription
6
Q
Epigenetic factors (2)
A
- Chromatin remodelling can prevent or enhance transcription
- Methylation of DNA can silence genes
7
Q
Gene “switched on”
A
- Active (open) chromatin
> Unmethylated cytosines
>Acetylated histones
8
Q
Gene “switched off”
A
- Silent (condensed) chromatin
> Methylated cytosines
> Deacetylated histones
