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What Are Stem Cells?

Part of Stem Cells and Cell Differentiation · GCSE GCSE Biology revision

This key facts covers What Are Stem Cells? within Stem Cells and Cell Differentiation for GCSE Biology. Stem cell types, differentiation processes, therapeutic applications, embryonic vs adult stem cells, and ethical considerations It is section 9 of 17 in this topic. Use this key facts to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.

Topic position

Section 9 of 17

Practice

21 questions

Recall

25 flashcards

📋 What Are Stem Cells?

  • Definition: Undifferentiated cells that can divide to produce more stem cells (self-renewal) or differentiate into specialized cell types
  • Key characteristics:
    • High capacity for cell division (self-renewal)
    • Ability to differentiate into multiple cell types
    • Ability to self-renew to maintain the stem cell pool
  • Location: Found in embryos, adult tissues, and plant meristems

Quick Check: What are the TWO key properties of all stem cells?

Keep building this topic

Read this section alongside the surrounding pages in Stem Cells and Cell Differentiation. That gives you the full topic sequence instead of a single isolated revision point.

Key Terms — Stem Cells and DifferentiationThe Process of Cell DifferentiationThe Amazing Journey from Stem Cell to Specialized CellStem Cell Differentiation — Source and Destination

Practice Questions for Stem Cells and Cell Differentiation

What is a stem cell?

  • A. An undifferentiated cell that can divide to produce many cell types
  • B. A specialized cell found only in plant roots
  • C. A cell that has already differentiated into a nerve cell
  • D. A bacterial cell that divides by binary fission
1 markfoundation

Explain how sperm cells are adapted for their function.

3 marksstandard

Quick Recall Flashcards

What is a stem cell?
An undifferentiated cell that can divide to produce more stem cells (self-renewal) or differentiate into specialized cell types.
What does 'totipotent' mean?
The highest level of potency - cells can differentiate into any cell type in the organism plus extraembryonic tissues like the placenta. Example: fertilized egg.

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Key Terms — Stem Cells and Differentiation

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The Process of Cell Differentiation