Part 01 · Cells · Card 12 of 12
Stem cell
An unspecialised cell that can divide and turn into many different types of cell.
Last updated
Analogy
A blank piece of clay that can be shaped into many things.
In practice
Doctors study stem cells as a way to repair damaged tissue.
Practice
Flashcards
- What makes a stem cell special?It is unspecialised and can become many types of cell.
Questions people ask
Where do stem cells come from?
Embryonic stem cells come from very early embryos and can become any type of cell. Adult stem cells are found in places like bone marrow, where they make blood cells, but they can become fewer types of cell. In plants, stem cells are found in areas called meristems.
Why are stem cells useful in medicine?
Because stem cells can turn into many cell types, doctors hope to use them to replace damaged cells, for example in diseases of the nerves or blood. Bone marrow transplants already use stem cells. Research continues, and there are also ethical debates about using embryos.