STEM CELL THEORY

What are stem cells?

Cells that are undifferentiated, meaning they do not have a specific job or function.

What is the potential of stem cells?

They can become any type of cell in the body.

How does the body use stem cells?

To replace worn-out cells when they die.

What is the source of human totipotent stem cells?

Fertilized egg (zygote) and early embryonic cells.

What is the unique ability of totipotent stem cells?

To differentiate into any type of cell in the body and even form an entire organism.

What cell types can be produced using totipotent stem cells?

Any cell (body and extra-embryonic).

What are pluripotent stem cells capable of producing?

Any cell (body only), excluding placenta.

What do multipotent stem cells produce?

A limited range of cell types, often tissue-specific.

What are iPSCs?

Reprogrammed adult cells that act like pluripotent stem cells.

What are some medical uses of iPSCs?

Treating diseases, repairing tissues, developing personalized therapies, and improving drug testing.

Which type of stem cells can replace any of the 220 cell types?

Pluripotent stem cells.

Why collect and store pluripotent stem cells from umbilical cord blood?

They provide a valuable resource for future medical treatments and have a higher chance of successful therapeutic use.

What are the benefits of cord blood banking?

It offers a safe, long-lasting, and versatile resource for stem cell therapy.

What are some functions of adult stem cells?

Tissue repair, replacing lost or dying cells, maintaining organ function, skin regeneration, and hair regeneration.

Where are adult stem cells located in the body?

Bone marrow, skin, muscle, liver, brain, etc.

Why are adult stem cells located in areas of growth or injury?

They play a critical role in regenerating damaged tissues and maintaining normal function.

How could adult stem cell therapy improve quality of life?

By promoting healing, regeneration, and recovery from injuries or degenerative diseases.

What is a potential adult stem cell therapy for heart disease?

Regenerating healthy heart tissue after a heart attack.

What are the medical risks of adult stem cell injections?

Uncontrolled cell growth and immune rejection.

What are organoids?

Miniature, simplified versions of organs grown in the laboratory.

What are some practical uses of organoids?

Studying disease effects and drug testing.

Which type of stem cells are used to make organoids?

Pluripotent stem cells, including embryonic stem cells.