1.4 Cellular Differentiation Flashcards Preview

CfE Higher Biology > 1.4 Cellular Differentiation > Flashcards

Flashcards in 1.4 Cellular Differentiation Deck (16)
Loading flashcards...
1
Q

Define a ‘Stem Cell’

A

A stem cell is an unspecialised cell that has the potential to become specialised or divide rapidly.

2
Q

What are two things a stem cell can do?

A
  • Differentiate

- Divide rapidly

3
Q

Describe how a cell become specialised

A

The genes that code for proteins characteristic of that cell are ‘turned on’ while others that are not needed are ‘turned off’
This means the genes coding for characteristic proteins are expressed

4
Q

What are lateral meristems responsible for?

A

Horizontal growth

5
Q

What are apical meristems responsible for?

A

Lateral growth

6
Q

a) Where are lateral meristems found?

b) Where are apical meristems found?

A

a) Found in the Cambium(between the xylem and the phloem)

b) Found in root and shoot tips

7
Q

What are the two types of stem cells found in humans?

A

Adult and Embryonic

8
Q

Where are stem cells found in the human body?

A

Developed tissues and in embryos

9
Q

Describe the type of stem cell an embryonic stem cell is

A

Pluripotent - able to differentiate into any stem cell types

10
Q

Compare the number of cells embryonic stem cells and adult stem cells can differentiate into

A

Embryonic stem cells - wide range

Adult stem cells - more limited range

11
Q

Give a limitation of embryonic stem cells

A

They cannot self renew in vivo

12
Q

State the two roles of tissue/adult stem cells

A
  • Replace cells
  • Growth of organism
  • Repair cells
13
Q

Give an example of a research use of stem cells

A

Research into how stem cells can differentiate

Used as model cells for testing of drugs

14
Q

Give an example of a therapeutic use of stem cell

A

Help patients needing a bone marrow transplant (leukaemia patients)

15
Q

What is an ethical considerations of using embryonic stem cells?

A

By using embryonic stem cells, some people believe you are killing a potential life

16
Q

Give two examples of regulation of stem cell uses

A
  • Laws to limit use of embryo stem cells outwidth a certain time frame
  • Permission must be granted by donor individual