U1 KA4

Question 1

What is cell differentiation?

Answer 1

• the process by which a cell expresses genes to produce proteins that code for a cells specific characteristics.

Question 2

What is a meristem?

Answer 2

• a region of unspecialised cells that can self renew.

Question 3

What are multipotent cells? (2)

Answer 3

• not all genes can be expressed.
• the cell can become any cell within a specific tissue.

Question 4

What are pluripotent cells? (2)

Answer 4

• cells where all genes can be switched on.
• the cell can become any cell in the body.

Question 5

Give an example of a multipotent cell.

Answer 5

• tissue stem cells.

Question 6

Give an example of a pluripotent cell.

Answer 6

• embryonic stem cells.

Question 7

What are tissue stem cells used for?

Answer 7

• growth, repair and maintenance of cells within a specific tissue.

Question 8

Name 3 therapeutic stem cell uses.

Answer 8

• skin grafts
• cornea repairs
• bone marrow transplants

Question 9

What are the ethical issues with using stem cells? (2)

Answer 9

• is it right to destroy embryos?
• at what stage is an embryo regarded as a person?

Question 10

Give a reason for carrying out stem cell research.

Answer 10

• drug testing.