Unit 1.1 - Division + Differention Flashcards
What is cellular differentiation?
The process by which a cell expresses certain genes to produce protein characteristics for that type of cell this allows a cell to carry out specialised functions.
What are stem cells?
Unspecialised cells
What can embryonic stem cells do?
Differentiate into all the cell types that make up the individual and so are pluripotent
What does pluripotent mean?
All the genes in the cell can be switched on so the cell can differentiate into any type of cell.
What are adult tissue stem cells?
They are involved in the growth,repair and renewal of the cells found in the tissue they are multi-potent
What does multipotent mean?
They can differentiate into all of the types of cell found in particular tissue.
Where are adult tissue stem cells found?
Locations such as skin or bone marrow
What can stem cells in bone marrow differentiate into?
Red blood cells, platelets and the various forms of phagocytes and lymphocytes
What can stem cells be used for?
Model cells to study how diseases develop or for drug testing
How are stem cells employed therapeutically?
To repair damaged or diseased organs or tissues
How are the therapeutic uses of stem cells used?
Corneal repair or regeneration of damage skin
What does stem cell research provide?
Information on how processes such as cell growth, differentiation and gene regulation work
What are somatic cells?
Any cell in the body other than cells involved and reproduction
What do somatic cells do?
Divide by mitosis to form more somatic cells
What are germline cells?
Gametes and the stem cells that divide to form gametes
