Module 2: Cell Division Cycle

Question 1

What is cell division mainly used for in mature animals?

Answer 1

Repair and cell replacement

Question 2

What is another name for simple cell division in bacteria?

Answer 2

Binary fission

Question 3

Outline the stages of the cell cycle

Answer 3

Cell grows
Organelles increase in number (eg ribosomes & mitochondria)
DNA replicates to form 2 copies of each chromosome
Mitosis/ Cell division - One copy of each chromosome pulled to opposite ends of the cell
Nucleus divides
Cytoplasm and plasma membrane divide

Question 4

Define stem cell

Answer 4

An undifferentiated cell that is capable of differentiating

Question 5

Describe function of stem cells in embryos

Answer 5

To differentiate into any type of cell

Question 6

Describe the functions of stem cells in adult animals

Answer 6

Replace body cells
Can only differentiate into cells from the type of tissue they are found

Question 7

Describe the functions of stem cells in the meristems of plants

Answer 7

Found at the root tip, shoot tip and between xylem and phloem.
Divide to allow growth
Able to differentiate into any type of plant cell.

Question 8

Describe the uses of stem cells from adult animals

Answer 8

Can form many types of cells including red and white blood cells.

Question 9

State two conditions that could be treated with stem cells

Answer 9

Paralysis and diabetes

Question 10

Outline the advantages of therapeutic cloning

Answer 10

Embryo produced has same genes as parent
Therefore, stem cells from the embryo won’t be rejected by the patient
Therefore, can be used for medical treatment

Question 11

Outline the potential risks of using stem cells to treat patients

Answer 11

Transfer of viral infection
Could reject
Some people have ethical/ religious objections