Topic 2 - Definitons And Concepts Flashcards
What are adult stem cells?
Stem cells that can differentiate into a limited range of cell types, e.g. bone marrow stem cells.
Adult stem cells are distinct from embryonic stem cells, which can differentiate into any cell type.
What is anaphase?
The third stage of mitosis in which the chromatids are pulled to opposite poles of the cell by spindle fibres.
Anaphase follows metaphase and precedes telophase in the mitotic process.
Define asexual reproduction.
A form of reproduction involving a single parent that creates genetically identical offspring.
Asexual reproduction includes processes such as binary fission, budding, and vegetative propagation.
What is an axon?
A long fibre that conducts nerve impulses away from the cell body.
Axons are crucial for the transmission of electrical signals in the nervous system.
What is cancer?
A non-communicable disease caused by changes in the cell that lead to uncontrolled growth and division.
Cancer can affect any tissue in the body and is characterized by the formation of tumors.
What is a cataract?
A cloudy patch which forms on the lens of the eye and prevents light from entering normally.
Affected individuals have blurred vision, difficulty seeing the intensity of colours, and problems with glare. It is treated using surgery to exchange the clouded lens for a synthetic one.
What is the cell cycle?
A series of events that take place in a cell, involving cell growth, DNA replication, and cell division.
The cell cycle consists of phases including G1, S, G2, and mitosis.
Define cell differentiation.
The process by which an undifferentiated cell becomes specialised for its function.
This process is critical in the development of multicellular organisms.
What is cell elongation?
The process by which cells expand and enlarge, enabling the growth of a plant.
Cell elongation is particularly important in plant growth and development.
What comprises the central nervous system (CNS)?
The brain and spinal cord.
The CNS is responsible for processing and transmitting information throughout the body.
What is the cerebellum?
The region of the brain that controls muscle coordination and non-voluntary movement (e.g. balance, posture).
The cerebellum is essential for fine motor control and maintaining equilibrium.
What is a cerebral hemisphere?
One half of the cerebrum. The left hemisphere controls muscles on the right side of the body and vice versa.
Each hemisphere is responsible for different functions, including language and spatial awareness.
What is the largest region of the brain responsible for movement, memory, intelligence, language, and vision?
Cerebrum
The cerebrum consists of two hemispheres.
What is one ‘arm’ of a replicated chromosome called?
Chromatid
What carries genetic information in the form of genes?
Chromosome
A chromosome is a long, coiled molecule of DNA.
What deficiency makes it difficult to distinguish between colours?
Colour blindness
What type of cells in the retina are sensitive to high light intensity and detect different colours?
Cone cells
What is the transparent outer covering that reflects light entering the eye?
Cornea
What imaging technique uses X-rays to create detailed images of internal organs?
CT scan
What is the process called that involves the division of the cytoplasm at the end of mitosis?
Cytokinesis
What are short, branched extensions of dendrons that provide a large surface area to receive nerve impulses called?
Dendrites
What are branched extensions of a nerve cell body that connect to other neurones?
Dendron
What type of cell contains two copies of each chromosome?
Diploid cell
What is an organ, tissue, or cell that produces a response to a stimulus called?
Effector