Stem Cells

Question 1

Definition

Answer 1

Unspecialised cells that work by dividing by mitosis into different differentiated cells which are specialised

Question 2

Embryos

Answer 2

Contain stem cells that divide by mitosis into any type of specialised cell

Question 3

Adults

Answer 3

Contain various types of stem cells that divide by mitosis into different types of specialised cells

Question 4

Theory behind using stem cells in medicine

Answer 4

Stem cells are isolated in a lab
The stem cells are made to grow in the lab
Sometimes the cells are stimulated to divide into the desired tissue type
The cells are inserted into the places they are needed

Question 5

Potential Benefits

Answer 5

Offer a way of treating many different diseases caused by damaged

Question 6

Potential Risks

Answer 6

Technique could be used illegally to produce human clones
If stem cells continue to divide in the body after they have replaced the damaged cells, they can result in cancer
Stem cells from one person to another are often killed by the immune system of another