Stem Cells (AQA GCSE Biology)

Flashcards covering key concepts of stem cells for AQA GCSE Biology, including definitions, types, uses, risks, and ethical considerations.

What are stem cells?

Undifferentiated cells that can divide to make more stem cells or differentiate into specialised cells.

Where are stem cells found in animals?

In embryos (embryonic stem cells, which can become almost any type of cell) and adult tissues (adult stem cells, e.g., in bone marrow, limited to certain types of cells).

Where are stem cells found in plants?

In the meristems (regions of growth, e.g., tips of shoots and roots).

What is the difference between embryonic and adult stem cells?

Embryonic stem cells can differentiate into most cell types, while adult stem cells are more limited, usually only differentiating into certain cell types (e.g., blood cells from bone marrow).

How can stem cells be used in medicine?

For treating conditions such as diabetes, paralysis, or leukaemia by replacing damaged or faulty cells, and they have potential for regenerative medicine.

How are plant stem cells used in agriculture?

To produce clones of plants quickly and cheaply; to grow rare species at risk of extinction; and to produce large numbers of identical crop plants with desired features (e.g., disease resistance).

What is therapeutic cloning?

A process where an embryo is produced with the same genes as the patient, so stem cells from it won be rejected by the patient s immune system.

What are some potential risks of using stem cells in medicine?

Stem cells may carry viruses, and there is a risk of uncontrolled cell growth leading to cancer.

What are some ethical issues with stem cells?

The use of embryonic stem cells involves destroying embryos, which some people object to on moral or religious grounds, leading to debate about whether the potential medical benefits outweigh these concerns.

Why do plants rely on stem cells (meristems)?

Because plants grow throughout their lives, and meristems allow continuous production of new cells for growth and repair.

Which part of the AQA GCSE spec covers stem cells?

Cell biology, specifically the section on cell division and differentiation.