Stem cells

• What are stem cells?

  Stem cells are undifferentiated cells that can divide by mitosis to form more cells and differentiate into specialized cells.
• What are the two key features of stem cells?

  1. Able to divide by mitosis to form more cells
  2. Able to differentiate into specialized cells
• What is formed when a sperm cell fertilizes an egg cell?

  A single cell called a zygote.
• What type of stem cells are the cells of an embryo called?

  Embryonic stem cells.
• What do the cells of an embryo divide by to form a small group of cells?

  Mitosis.
• What can embryonic stem cells differentiate into?

  Embryonic stem cells can differentiate into absolutely any type of cell.
• How do embryonic stem cells contribute to the development of a baby?

  They continue to divide and differentiate into all the other important cells needed, eventually forming a fully developed baby after approximately nine months.
• What type of stem cells are present in adult humans?

  Adults have stem cells that have already specialized and can only differentiate into a narrow range of cells.
• Where are adult stem cells found in the body?

  Adult stem cells are found in bone marrow, a jelly-like substance inside some large bones.
• What type of blood cells can adult stem cells in bone marrow differentiate into?

  Red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.
• What is the primary function of adult stem cells in the body?

  They can replace damaged cells to keep us alive.
• Do adult stem cells form new tissues in the same way as embryonic stem cells?

  No, adult stem cells do not form any new tissues.
• Where are plant stem cells located?

  Plant stem cells are found in plant tissues called meristems, which are located in areas that are continually growing, such as the tips of roots and shoots.
• What types of cells can plant stem cells differentiate into as the plant grows?

  • Palisade cells for photosynthesis
  • Phloem cells for sugar transport
  • Xylem cells for water transport
  • Root hair cells for water and mineral absorption
• Do plant stem cells persist throughout the plant's life?

  Yes, plant stem cells persist for the plant's entire life.
• When do embryonic stem cells disappear in human development?

  By the time we are fully developed.