Stem Cells Flashcards
Differentiation
The process by which a cell changes to become specialised for its job
Stem cells
Undifferentiated cells that can divide to produce lots more undifferentiated cells
They can differentiate into different types of cell
Where are stem cells found?
Early human embryos
Adult bone marrow
Adult stem cells
Used to cure disease
Embryonic stem cells
Could be used to replace faulty cells in sick people
Why are some people against stem cell research?
Human embryos are a potential human life
Some campaigners think that scientists should focus more on finding other sources of stem cells and not using embryos
Where are stem cells found in plants?
Meristems
How are stem cells from plants used?
Produce clones of whole plants quickly and cheaply
Can be used to grow more plants of rare species
Used to grow crops of identical desired features for farmers e.g. disease resistant
