Stem Cells

Question 1

Stem cells

Answer 1

Unspecialised cells- can develop into different type of cells

Found in early embryos

Question 2

Differentiation of stem cells

Adult and plant

Answer 2

Divide to become new cells which become specialised

Adult Stem cells in bone marrow - differentiate into blood cells (erythrocytes and neutrophils) to replace worn out ones

Stem cells in meristem - differentiate into xylem vessels and phloem sieve tubes

Question 3

How can stem cells be used in the future

Answer 3

Replace damaged tissue in diseases

Alzheimer’s : nerve cells in brain die - results in memory loss - stem cells to regrow healthy nerve cells

Parkinson’s: tremors, loss of dopamine producing nerve cell - transplanted stem cells may help to regenerate these cells