GCSE Biology - Stem Cells in Medicine

The video tutorial explores the use of stem cells in medicine, focusing on their potential to treat conditions like diabetes and paralysis. It explains the types of stem cells, their ability to differentiate, and the techniques used to replace faulty cells. The tutorial also discusses the challenges, such as limited supply and immune rejection, and considers alternatives like adult stem cells. It highlights risks like virus transmission and tumor development. Finally, it addresses ethical concerns, emphasizing the debate over using embryonic stem cells and the regulatory landscape.

What is a unique feature of embryonic stem cells compared to adult stem cells?

• They can only differentiate into blood cells.

• They are found in bone marrow.

• They can differentiate into any type of specialized cell.

• They are more prone to rejection.

How can stem cells be used to treat diabetes?

• By transforming into red blood cells.

• By suppressing the immune system.

• By replacing damaged nerve cells.

• By differentiating into insulin-producing pancreas cells.

What is a major limitation of using adult stem cells?

• They are difficult to obtain.

• They can only differentiate into blood cells.

• They are more likely to be rejected.

• They can cause tumors.

What is a common method to reduce the risk of rejection when using embryonic stem cells?

• Using adult stem cells instead.

• Suppressing the patient's immune system.

• Increasing the supply of embryonic stem cells.

• Using stem cells from a different species.

What is a potential benefit of using adult stem cells over embryonic stem cells?

• They can differentiate into any cell type.

• They are less likely to be rejected by the immune system.

• They are more readily available from embryos.

• They have no ethical concerns associated with their use.

What is one potential risk of using stem cells in treatment?

• They cannot differentiate into any cell type.

• They are always rejected by the immune system.

• They may transmit viruses to the patient.

• They can cause immediate allergic reactions.

Why do some people object to the use of embryonic stem cells?

• They believe embryos have the potential for human life.

• They think adult stem cells are more effective.

• They are concerned about the cost of research.

• They believe it leads to immediate health risks.