Topic 2 - Stem Cells

Question 1

What are stem cells?

Answer 1

Unspecialised cells that have the potential to differentiate into different types of specialised cells

Question 2

Where can stem cells be found?

Answer 2

• in human embryos
• in adult tissues eg bone marrow

Question 3

Name 3 different types of stem cells

Answer 3

Totipotent
Pluripotent
Multipotent

Question 4

Where is the totipotent found?

Answer 4

in early embryos

Question 5

Where is pluripotent found?

Answer 5

In the placenta and can differentiate into almost any cell type

Question 6

Where is multipotent found?

Answer 6

in mostly adults but will only differentiate into certain cell types

Question 7

Where are stem cells in plants found?

Answer 7

In the meristem regions of a root or shoot tip

Question 8

Name a benefit of stem cells in medicine

Answer 8

can be used to create specialised cells to replace damaged ones

Question 9

Name a risk of stem cells in medicine

Answer 9

They divide very quickly and if this isn’t controlled a tumour may develop