1.1 Cell Specialisation

Stem Cells

Unspecialized cells with the ability to self-renew and differentiate into various cell types.

Self-Renewal

The capability of stem cells to continuously divide and replicate.

Potency

The capacity of stem cells to differentiate into other cell types.

Totipotent

Stem cells that can form any cell type, including extra-embryonic tissue.

Pluripotent

Stem cells that can form any cell type except extra-embryonic tissue, e.g., embryonic stem cells.

Multipotent

Stem cells that can differentiate into closely related cell types.

Unipotent

Stem cells that cannot differentiate into other types but can renew themselves.

Stem Cell Therapy

Treatment involving the replacement of damaged or diseased cells with healthy stem cells.

Biochemical Solutions

Substances used to trigger cell differentiation during stem cell therapy.

Tumour Risk

The potential for stem cells to become cancerous after implantation.

Differentiation

The process by which stem cells develop into specialized cell types through selective gene expression.

Euchromatin

Loosely packed chromatin representing active genes.

Heterochromatin

Tightly packed chromatin representing inactive genes.

Selective Gene Expression

The phenomenon where certain genes are activated while others remain inactive, leading to cell specialization.