Stem cells

• What is a stem cell?

  An undifferentiated cell that can differentiate
• Where are stem cells found in plants?

  In meristem tissue at root tips and buds
• What is the process called when cells become specialized?

  Differentiation
• What are embryonic stem cells capable of?

  Differentiating into any type of body cell
• What is a common use of stem cells in medicine?

  Bone marrow transplants for leukemia
• What is the first step in a bone marrow transplant for leukemia?

  Destroying the patient's existing bone marrow
• What is therapeutic cloning used for?

  To create stem cells that won't be rejected
• What ethical concerns are associated with therapeutic cloning?

  Objections based on ethics or religion
• What type of tissue contains stem cells in plants?

  Meristem tissue
• How can meristem tissue be used in agriculture?

  To produce clones of plants quickly
• Why might farmers clone plants?

  To produce disease-resistant crop plants
• What are the steps involved in a bone marrow transplant?

  1. Destroy existing bone marrow
  2. Transplant donor bone marrow
  3. Stem cells divide and differentiate
• What are the potential risks of bone marrow transplants?

  • Donor compatibility issues
  • Risk of virus transmission
• What are the benefits of using meristem tissue in plants?

  • Quick and cheap cloning
  • Preservation of rare plants
  • Production of disease-resistant crops