Stem Cells Flashcards

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  • Make sure you understand the information on each card. If something's unclear, click the link to the revision notes at the bottom of the page for more details.

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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.

What does "unspecialised" mean when talking about stem cells?

It means the cell has no set job yet in the body.

What is differentiation in stem cells?

Differentiation is when a stem cell changes into a specialised cell.

Where are embryonic stem cells taken from?

They come from very early embryos, which are tiny balls of cells.

What is special about embryonic stem cells?

They can turn into almost any type of cell in the body.

What are adult stem cells and where are they found?

They are stem cells in adults, found in tissues such as bone marrow.

How are adult stem cells different from embryonic stem cells?

Adult stem cells can make fewer cell types than embryonic stem cells.

Name one disease that is already treated using stem cells.

Some blood cancers, such as leukaemia, are treated using bone marrow transplants.

How can a bone marrow transplant help someone with leukaemia?

The new bone marrow gives healthy stem cells that make normal blood cells.

How might stem cells be used in the future to treat disease?

They may replace damaged cells, for example in spinal injuries or diabetes.

Why do some people have ethical concerns about using embryonic stem cells?

Using them destroys embryos, which some people see as potential human life.