B2.3 Cell Specialization Kognity

This set of flashcards covers key concepts related to cell differentiation, stem cells, their properties, types, and the environments they inhabit.

Cell differentiation

The process by which unspecialized cells develop into specialized cells with distinct functions.

Stem cells

Undifferentiated cells that have the potential to develop into various cell types.

Totipotent stem cells

Stem cells that can differentiate into any type of cell, including placental cells and can give rise to a complete organism.

Pluripotent stem cells

Stem cells that can differentiate into almost all cell types but cannot form an entire organism.

Multipotent stem cells

Stem cells that can differentiate into a limited range of cell types, often related.

Unipotent stem cells

Stem cells that can only differentiate into one specific type of cell.

Morphogen gradients

Concentration gradients of signaling molecules that guide cell development and differentiation in embryos.

Stem cell niche

The microenvironment where stem cells are found, which influences their behavior and differentiation.

Bone marrow niche

The specific area within the bone marrow where blood stem cells are located and regulated.

Hair follicle niche

A specialized environment in hair follicles that supports the proliferation and regeneration of hair stem cells.

Extracellular matrix

The network of proteins and molecules outside cells that provides structural and biochemical support to surrounding cells.

Ectoderm

The outermost layer of an embryo that develops into skin and nervous system.

Mesoderm

The middle layer of an embryo that develops into muscle, bone, and circulatory systems.

Endoderm

The innermost layer of an embryo that develops into the digestive tract and organs.

Gene expression

The process by which information from a gene is used to synthesize functional gene products like proteins.