Embryonic and Adult Stem Cells Flashcards

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Note: We may include questions that have multiple correct answers. It's useful to remember specific examples to understand these concepts better.

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What is a stem cell?

A stem cell is an unspecialised cell that can divide and change into different types of specialised cell.

Where do embryonic stem cells come from?

Embryonic stem cells come from very early embryos, only a few days after an egg is fertilised by a sperm.

What can embryonic stem cells become?

Embryonic stem cells can become almost any type of cell in the body, such as nerve, muscle or blood cells.

Where are adult stem cells found in the human body?

Adult stem cells are found in some tissues, such as the bone marrow inside bones.

What can adult stem cells usually become?

Adult stem cells can usually become only a small range of cells, often the types of cell found in that tissue.

What is the main job of adult stem cells in the body?

The main job of adult stem cells is to replace and repair damaged or worn-out cells, such as blood cells.

How are embryonic stem cells different from adult stem cells in what they can become?

Embryonic stem cells can become many more types of cell than adult stem cells can.

Why might doctors use adult stem cells from a patient to treat them?

If the stem cells come from the patient, they are less likely to be rejected by the patient’s immune system.

Give one medical use of adult stem cells from bone marrow.

Adult stem cells from bone marrow can be used in bone marrow transplants to treat blood diseases such as leukaemia.

What is one risk of using embryonic stem cells in treatment?

Embryonic stem cells may divide out of control and form tumours, or be rejected by the patient’s body.