Bio topic 2 (booklet)

Vocabulary flashcards covering the concepts of chromosomes, genes, mitosis, meiosis, cancer development, and stem cell technology.

Nucleus

The part of the cell where genetic information (DNA) is stored and chromosomes are found.

Chromosomes

Structures inside the nucleus arranged by size and shape; humans have $23$ pairs.

Gene

A bit of information on a chromosome that provides instructions on how to build the body; they are arranged in a row and control different characteristics.

Sex Chromosomes

The 23rd pair of chromosomes in humans; designated as XY for males and XX for females.

Mitosis

A type of cell division that produces $2$ genetically identical cells, each containing the same number of chromosomes (46 in humans) as the original mother cell.

Meiosis

A type of cell division occurring in the ovaries or testes that produces 4 genetically different gametes containing half the normal number of chromosomes.

Gametes

Sex cells (sperm or eggs) produced by meiosis that contain only one of each pair of chromosomes.

Cancer

The result of uncontrolled mitosis, occurring when genes that control cell division stop functioning correctly.

Tumour

A group of cells growing out of control that damages tissues and organs; cells may also travel via the blood to form new tumours elsewhere.

Stem Cells

Unspecialised cells which have the ability to develop into other cells and differentiate into different types of cells to replace damaged tissue.

Specialised Cells

Cells such as muscle, skin, or liver cells that have already developed specific functions and are unable to change into another type of cell.

Meristems

The source of stem cells in plants, located at the growing points in the tips of shoots and roots.

Adult Stem Cells

Stem cells sourced from bone marrow, umbilical cords, or babies' teeth; they do not have rejection issues but are unable to differentiate into as many types as other sources.

Embryonic Stem Cells

Stem cells sourced from embryos left over from In Vitro Fertility (IVF) treatment; their use is controversial due to the destruction of potential human life.