Stem Cells

Question 1

What are the characteristics of stem cells?

Answer 1

Through simple mitosis, a stem cell can make an exact copy of itself. Given an appropriate signal, stem cells can differentiate and produce specialised cells

Question 2

What does potency refer to?

Answer 2

The potential capacity of a stem cell to differentiate into different specialised cell types

Question 3

What are the differentiations of stem cells?

Answer 3

Totipotent, pluripotent and multi potent

Question 4

Describe totipotent stem cells

Answer 4

Capable of developing into any type of cell necessary for embryonic development, including the embryo itself and the placenta.

Question 5

Describe pluripotent stem cells

Answer 5

Have the potential of developing into many, but not all, cell types necessary for foetal development

Question 6

Describe multi potent stem cells

Answer 6

Have the potential to form a limited range of cell types

Question 7

What are 3 sources of stem cells?

Answer 7

Umbilical cord blood and placenta stem cells, embryonic stem cells and adult stem cells.

Question 8

What are stem cells?

Answer 8

Cells from which other types of cells can develop