11.4 Cell Differentiation

Front

What does 'pluripotent' mean?

Back

Pluripotent refers to the ability of a stem cell to divide and differentiate into many different types of cells.

Front

Why are muscle cells different from blood cells?

Back

Muscle cells and blood cells are different because different genes are activated in each type of cell.

Front

What are stem cells?

Back

Stem cells are undifferentiated cells that have the potential to develop into any type of cell.

Front

What ethical issues are associated with stem cell research?

Back

Stem cell research is controversial due to ethical issues surrounding the use of embryonic stem cells.

Front

What is the difference between embryonic stem cells and adult stem cells?

Back

Embryonic stem cells can differentiate into more cell types than adult stem cells.

Front

What is differentiation in the context of cell biology?

Back

Differentiation is the process by which a less specialized cell becomes a more specialized cell type.

Front

What are the two main types of stem cells?

Back

The two main types of stem cells are embryonic stem cells and adult stem cells.

Front

How do stem cells contribute to tissue repair?

Back

Stem cells can differentiate into specialized cells that replace damaged or lost cells in tissues.

Front

What role do transcription factors play in cell differentiation?

Back

Transcription factors are proteins that help regulate the expression of genes, influencing cell differentiation.

Front

What is the significance of gene expression in cell differentiation?

Back

Gene expression determines the characteristics and functions of a cell, leading to its specialization.