Stem cells

Question 1

What is the definition of a stem cell

Answer 1

A single cell that has the capacity to self renew and generate differentiate progency

Question 2

What are the 3 possible outcomes for stem cells

Answer 2

Differentiate into another cell type
Cell death - end up dying
Quiescence - Remain in the body unactivated until they are required and then enter the cell cycle

Question 3

Give some uses for stem cells

Answer 3

Stem cell transplant - used as a treatment for cancers
Drug testing - for finding new cures for many diseases#
Gene expression - for cell diviion and differentation. Can be a clue for cancer and other birth defectss

Question 4

Describe advantages/disadvantages of a stem cell transplant using an adult stem cell

Answer 4

Work better during transplants - less chance of rejection
They are difficult to culture
There are no ethical issues surrounding them
If unable to use bodies own stem cells will have to seek a donor - there may not be another match currently available for you

Question 5

Describe advantages/disadvantages of a stem cell transplant using an embryonic stem cell

Answer 5

Problem with rejection during transplants
They are a lot easier to culture
Problems surrounding the ethics - technically it could turn into a human life

Question 6

Describe totipotent stem cells

Answer 6

They can give rise to the embryonic membrane of any cell

Question 7

Describe pluripotent tem cells

Answer 7

Can differentiate to any cell in the human body. Can self renew/differentiate into germ layers

Question 8

Describe multipotent stem cells

Answer 8

Can give rise to tissue specific cell typess

Question 9

Describe unipotent stem cells

Answer 9

Can give rise to 1 specific cell type

Question 10

Define protency

Answer 10

Potency of the stem cell specifies the differentiation potential