B2.1.6

Question 1

What are stem cells

Answer 1

Stem cells are undifferentiated cells. Dividing via mitosis to form cells which then differentiate and become specialised. Stem cells can develop into any type of specialised cell and therefore form all types of tissues and organs.

Question 2

What are stem cells used for

Answer 2

Stem cells are used for body growth and repair

Question 3

What are embryonic stem cells

Answer 3

Found in embryos. They divide by mitosis to form cells needed by an organism. They can differentiate into all cells (totipotent).

Question 4

What are adult stem cells

Answer 4

They are found in various body tissue such as the brain, bone marrow, skin and the liver. They are able to differentiate into some but not all types of cells (pluripotent)

Question 5

Where are stem cells found in plants

Answer 5

Stem cells are found in the meristems of plants