Teratomas: What Tumors with Teeth Can Teach Us About Stem Cells

The video explores tumors, focusing on teratomas, which can contain various body parts like hair and teeth. Teratomas originate from germ cells and exhibit pluripotency, leading to diverse tissue types. Historical research on teratomas has significantly contributed to stem cell research. The potential of pluripotent stem cells in medicine is discussed, highlighting the need for caution to avoid unintended teratoma formation.

What is a teratoma, and why is it considered unusual?

• A tumor that only affects the lungs

• A type of cancer that spreads rapidly

• A tumor that can contain various body parts like hair and teeth

• A benign tumor that only contains skin cells

What is the role of pluripotency in the development of teratomas?

• It prevents cells from dividing

• It allows cells to become any type of cell

• It causes cells to die prematurely

• It limits cells to only becoming skin cells

Which type of cells are primarily responsible for the formation of teratomas?

• Blood cells

• Germ cells

• Skin cells

• Lung cells

How did research on teratomas contribute to the field of stem cell research?

• By proving that all tumors are cancerous

• By demonstrating that embryonic stem cells can form teratomas

• By showing that teratomas can be used to treat cancer

• By indicating that teratomas are harmless

What is a major concern when using pluripotent stem cells in medical therapies?

• They are rejected by the body

• They might not grow into any tissue

• They could form teratomas

• They are too expensive to produce