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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:

Embryos

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.
Bone marrow

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.
Plant meristems

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.
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Biology

1.1

Cells, Tissues & Organs

1.2

Reproduction & Variation

1.3

Ecological Relationships & Classification

1.4

Digestion & Nutrition

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Plants & Photosynthesis

1.6

Biological Systems & Processes

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2.2

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The Periodic Table

2.5

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2.7

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Waves

3.4

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Disciplinary Knowledge

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