Stem Cells Overview

A set of vocabulary flashcards based on key concepts about stem cells from the lecture notes.

Stem Cells

Cells that give rise to new tissues as part of growth and healing.

Self-Renewal

The ability of a single stem cell to replicate itself indefinitely.

Differentiation

The maturation process by which immature cells take on specialized structures related to specific functions.

Pluripotent

Stem cells with the potential to differentiate into nearly any type of cell.

Somatic Cells

Differentiated body cells that have a limited number of mitotic divisions.

HAYFLICK LIMIT

The maximum number of times a normal somatic cell can divide, approximately 40-60 times.

Embryonic Stem Cells

Stem cells that have full genetic potential and can become any cell type.

Multipotent

Stem cells that have a limited ability to differentiate into a range of cell types related to their tissue origin.

Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells (iPS Cells)

Differentiated cells that are reprogrammed to a pluripotent state.

Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSC)

Stem cells that can differentiate into a variety of cell types in connective tissue.

Chemical Signals

Factors that influence the differentiation of stem cells by turning specific genes on or off.

Regenerative Properties

The unique ability of stem cells to help heal and repair damaged tissues, possibly curing diseases.

Examples of Diseases Treated by Stem Cells

Type I Diabetes, Parkinson’s Disease, Spinal Cord Injury, blood cancers.

Blastocyst

An early stage of embryonic development, containing an inner cell mass that can develop into stem cells.

Transitory Cells

Cells that are in a temporary state during the differentiation process before maturing into specialized cells.