B2: Cell Division

Cards (27)

  • adult stem cell
    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.
  • zygote
    A fertilised egg cell.