Stem cells

• What are stem cells?

  Unique, undifferentiated cells capable of differentiation
• What are the two key properties of stem cells?

  Self-renewal and potency
• Why is understanding stem cells important?

  They have potential in medical treatments and research
• What are the main types of stem cells?

  1. Embryonic Stem Cells (ESCs)
  2. Adult Stem Cells (ASCs)
  3. Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells (iPSCs)
  4. Totipotent Stem Cells
• Where are embryonic stem cells (ESCs) derived from?

  Inner cell mass of a blastocyst
• What is the potency of embryonic stem cells?

  Pluripotent, can differentiate into almost any cell type
• Why are embryonic stem cells significant in research?

  They can differentiate into a wide range of cells
• Where are adult stem cells (ASCs) found?

  Specific tissues like bone marrow and skin
• What is the potency of adult stem cells?

  Typically multipotent, limited range of cell types
• Why are adult stem cells considered ethically acceptable?

  They do not involve embryo destruction
• What are induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) derived from?

  Somatic (adult) cells that are reprogrammed
• What is the significance of iPSCs in medicine?

  They reduce the risk of immune rejection
• Where are totipotent stem cells found?

  In the very early stages of an embryo
• What is the potency of totipotent stem cells?

  They can develop into any cell type
• What is the significance of totipotency?

  It is the most versatile form of stem cells
• What are the classifications of stem cell potency?

  • Totipotent: All cell types, including placental
  • Pluripotent: All body cell types, not placental
  • Multipotent: Limited cell types within a lineage
  • Unipotent: One cell type, retains self-renewal
• What triggers stem cell differentiation?

  Changes in gene expression from internal and external signals
• What are signal transduction pathways?

  Regulatory pathways that influence gene expression
• Name three key transcription factors involved in maintaining pluripotency.

  Oct4, Sox2, and Nanog
• What are the three primary germ layers formed during embryonic development?

  1. Ectoderm: Nervous system and skin
  2. Mesoderm: Muscles, bones, and circulatory system
  3. Endoderm: Digestive tract and lungs
• What is gastrulation?

  The process establishing body plan and organ systems
• What are the applications of stem cells?

  1. Regenerative Medicine
  2. Drug Discovery and Testing
  3. Understanding Development and Disease
  4. Personalized Medicine
• How can stem cells be used in regenerative medicine?

  To repair or replace damaged tissues
• What is an example of stem cell use in regenerative medicine?

  Bone marrow transplants for blood disorders
• How do stem cells aid in drug discovery?

  They provide a platform for testing new drugs
• What is the role of iPSCs in drug discovery?

  They model specific diseases for drug testing
• How do stem cells contribute to understanding development and disease?

  They provide insights into differentiation processes
• What are cancer stem cells (CSCs)?

  A subpopulation of cancer cells with stem-like properties
• Why is targeting cancer stem cells important?

  They play a role in tumor initiation and relapse
• What are the uses of stem cells in organ and tissue engineering?

  1. 3D Bioprinting for organ structures
  2. Organoids for disease modeling and drug testing
• How can stem cells be used in the treatment of autoimmune diseases?

  They reset the immune system in patients
• What is the role of stem cells in wound healing?

  They promote repair and regeneration of tissues
• How are stem cells used in transplantation?

  To generate organs and tissues genetically matched to patients
• What are the ethical considerations surrounding stem cell use?

  • Embryo destruction concerns
  • Importance of informed consent
  • Equity and access to treatments
• What are recent advances in stem cell research?

  1. 3D Bioprinting
  2. Gene Editing (CRISPR-Cas9)
  3. Organoids for disease modeling
• Why are stem cells considered a cornerstone of modern biology?

  They offer opportunities for understanding and treatment
• What is the future potential of stem cells?

  Innovative treatments and improved patient care
• What is the conclusion about stem cells in the guide?

  They are versatile tools in biology and medicine