17.2.2

Stem Cells

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Stem Cells

Stem cells are undifferentiated cells that have not yet specialised to perform a specific function. They can create more stem cells or differentiate (become a different type of body cell) to perform another function. Stem cells are found in:

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Embryos

  • The stem cells in embryos can differentiate into most cell types, to produce all of the cell types that will make up the organism.
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Bone marrow

  • In human adults, stem cells can be found in bone marrow (as well as other tissues and organs).
  • Adult stem cells differentiate into fewer cell types than stem cells in embryos. They are used to replace dying cells and damaged tissues.
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Plant meristems

  • Plant stem cells are found in the meristem tissue.
  • Plant stem cells can differentiate into all types of plant cell throughout the life of the plant. This allows plants to grow for their whole lives.

Jump to other topics

1Classification of Living Organisms

2Organisation of the Organism

3Movement Into & Out of Cells

4Biological Molecules

5Enzymes

6Plant Nutrition

7Human Nutrition

8Transport in Plants

9Transport in Animals

10Diseases & Immunity

11Gas Exchange in Humans

12Respiration

13Excretion in Humans

14Coordination & Response

15Drugs

16Reproduction

17Inheritance

18Variation & Selection

19Organisms & Their Environment

20Human Influence on Ecosystems

21Biotechnology & Genetic Modification

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