Stem cells Flashcards
Learn about stem cells and their uses.
1
Q
What is a stem cell?
A
undifferentiated cells that haven’t yet been specialised for a function. They can create other stem cells or differentiate.
2
Q
Where can they be found?
A
Bone marrow in adult stem cells, embryos in embryonic stem cells and meristems in plant stem cells.
3
Q
What are the uses of stem cells?
A
Stem cell treatments (replacing damaged cells), plant clones which could help create disease resistance and therapeutic cloning which prevents organ rejection by creating exact copies.
4
Q
What are the disadvantages of stem cells?
A
Viral infections and ethical beliefs (life begins at conception meaning killing an embryo is wrong).
