Stem Cells

• What are stem cells?

  Unspecialised cells found in animals
• What are the two unique properties of stem cells?

  They can divide to produce more stem cells
• What can stem cells divide to make?

  Specialised cells like nerve and red blood cells
• What are the two types of stem cells?

  Embryonic stem cells and adult stem cells
• Where are embryonic stem cells found?

  In embryos
• What is the ability of embryonic stem cells?

  To divide and specialise into almost any cell type
• How can embryonic stem cells be used in the lab?

  To produce many specialised cell types
• What potential medical use do embryonic stem cells have?

  Growing and replacing tissues or organs
• What are the ethical considerations in stem cell research?

  It involves creating and possibly destroying embryos
• Where are adult (tissue) stem cells found?

  In many organs
• What is the limitation of adult (tissue) stem cells' specialization?

  They can only form cell types from their organ
• What can liver stem cells form?

  Liver cells only
• What role do adult (tissue) stem cells play in animals?

  Producing new tissues and repairing damaged tissues
• What are stem cells used for?

  Growth and repair