A type of stem cell found in specific locations in adults. Adult stem cells can only differentiate into a limited number of related cell types.
cancer
A disease caused by normal cells changing so that they grow and divide in an uncontrolled way. The uncontrolled growth causes a lump called a tumour to form.
cell cycle
The series of stages that a cell goes through as it is growing and dividing.
chromosome
The structure made of DNA that codes for all the characteristics of an organism.
cloning
A scientific method by which genetically identical copies are made of animals or plants.
cuttings
Part of a plant stem, leaf, or root cut off and used for producing a new plant. An artificial propagation method.
daughter cells
When a cell divides, the new cells produced are called daughter cells.
differentiation
When an unspecialised cell becomes a more specialised cell type.
DNA
Deoxyribonucleic acid. The material inside the nucleus of cells, carrying the genetic information of a living being.
egg cell
The female reproductive cell. Also known as a gamete.
embryo
An organism in the early stages of development.
embryonic stem cell
A type of stem cell found in the embryo, capable of dividing into almost any cell type.
ethical
Relating to right and wrong, eg ethical companies are often ones that act in a responsible way.
fertilisation
The joining of a male and female gamete.
gene
The basic unit of genetic material inherited from our parents. A gene is a section of DNA which controls part of a cell's chemistry - particularly protein production.
genetic engineering
Process which involves the artificial transfer of genetic information from one donor cell or organism to another.
immune system
The body's defence system against entry of any foreign body, including pathogens and agents such as pollen grains. The role of the immune system is to prevent disease.
meristem
A region in plant shoots and roots in which cells are dividing, and so are undergoing mitosis. These can differentiate into any type of plant cell.
mitosis
A type of cell division which produces daughter cells that are genetically identical to the parent.
multicellular
Having more than one cell.
nucleus
The nucleus controls what happens inside the cell. Chromosomes are structures found in the nucleus of most cells. The plural of nucleus is nuclei.
specialised
A cell that has become differentiated to carry out a particular function, eg red blood cell.
stem cell
A type of unspecialised cell found in embryos, foetuses and some adult tissues that can differentiate a wide range of other cells.
synthesis
Made or put together.
therapeutic cloning
Using cloning technology for medicinal purposes. One example is to use a person's DNA to clone one of their organs for use in transplanting. Could be used to treat diabetes or paralysis in the future.
transplant
Surgical procedure in which a tissue or organ is replaced.