Biology Chapter: Stem Cells vs Specialized Cells

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Questions and Answers

What is a key characteristic of specialized cells compared to stem cells?

Specialized cells can replicate indefinitely.
Specialized cells are always found in multicellular organisms.
Specialized cells perform specific functions. (correct)
Specialized cells can become any type of cell.

Which of the following is a potential use of stem cells in medical treatments?

Replacing all organs in the body.
Regeneration of damaged tissues. (correct)
Increasing the number of stem cells in the body.
Creating specialized cells for muscle contraction.

Which specialized cell is responsible for performing photosynthesis?

Stem cell
Blood cell
Root cell
Leaf cell (correct)

What is one ethical implication of stem cell research?

It raises questions about the origin of stem cells. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What differentiates stem cells from specialized cells during the differentiation process?

Stem cells can differentiate into various cell types. (C) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following correctly describes a function of root cells?

They absorb water and minerals. (D) Signup and view all the answers

In what way do specialized cells typically differ in structure compared to stem cells?

Specialized cells have distinct structures to carry out specific functions. (B) Signup and view all the answers

How does the presence of specialized cells affect multicellular organisms?

They allow for division of labor among cells. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary role of stem cells in human development?

To differentiate into various types of specialized cells (C) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes the process by which stem cells become specialized cells?

Cell differentiation (C) Signup and view all the answers

What are meristems in plants primarily responsible for?

Growth and differentiation of plant cells (B) Signup and view all the answers

What ethical issue is commonly associated with stem cell research?

Potential destruction of human embryos (A) Signup and view all the answers

How do specialized cells differ from stem cells?

Stem cells are undifferentiated and can become any cell type (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which medical treatment can stem cells potentially be used for?

Neurodegenerative diseases (B) Signup and view all the answers

What type of division occurs in human cells for growth and development?

Mitosis (C) Signup and view all the answers

What impact could stem cell research have on healthcare and society?

Advancements in regenerative medicine and treatment options (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of specialized cells in an organism?

To perform specific functions unique to their type (B) Signup and view all the answers

Which statement best describes stem cells in relation to other cell types?

They can differentiate into various specialized cells (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant ethical concern regarding stem cell research?

Use of embryonic stem cells vs. adult stem cells (B) Signup and view all the answers

How does cell specialization contribute to the survival of an organism?

It allows for the efficient functioning of various systems (B) Signup and view all the answers

What defines specialized cells in contrast to stem cells?

Specialized cells have specific functions and characteristics. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of stem cells in tissue repair?

To differentiate into new cells needed for repair (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which statement accurately describes stem cells?

Stem cells can develop into various cell types through differentiation. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a type of stem cell?

Terminally differentiated cells (C) Signup and view all the answers

In what way can stem cell research impact medical treatments?

It may provide avenues for regenerative therapies and disease treatment. (B) Signup and view all the answers

Which process describes how specialized cells develop from stem cells?

Cell differentiation (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is a key ethical concern surrounding stem cell research?

The moral status of embryos from which stem cells are derived. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Why can stem cells be considered foundational components of complex organisms?

They give rise to various specialized cell types (C) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a potential use of stem cells in regenerative medicine?

Treating neurodegenerative diseases through cell replacement. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is one consequence of cell differentiation?

Cells acquire specific structures and functions. (C) Signup and view all the answers

How do stem cells contribute to human development?

They are involved in the initial formation of complex tissues. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which of these best describes the relationship between specialized cells and stem cells?

Stem cells develop into specialized cells through differentiation. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is a key characteristic that distinguishes specialized cells from stem cells?

Specialized cells have unique functions, while stem cells are undifferentiated. (A) Signup and view all the answers

Which statement correctly identifies a feature of neurons as specialized cells?

Neurons have a fatty sheath that increases signal transmission speed. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What do the branched connections of neurons allow them to do?

Establish connections to pass electrical signals. (B) Signup and view all the answers

Which ethical concern is commonly associated with stem cell research?

Use of embryonic stem cells and its moral implications. (C) Signup and view all the answers

In regenerative medicine, what is the primary role of stem cells?

To replace damaged or dead specialized cells. (C) Signup and view all the answers

How does the structure of a neuron facilitate its function?

Its long and thin shape allows for long-distance signal transmission. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is the main function of specialized cells in the body?

To perform specific tasks tailored to different body functions. (C) Signup and view all the answers

Which statement best summarizes the process of cell differentiation?

Cells differentiate to form varied types with distinct functions. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary ethical concern regarding embryonic stem cells?

The potential destruction of human embryos. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What potential benefit is associated with stem cell research?

Development of personalized medicine. (B) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following are considered alternative sources of stem cells?

Adult stem cells. (B), Induced pluripotent stem cells. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What challenge does stem cell research pose for society?

Potential high costs limiting treatment access. (B) Signup and view all the answers

How do supporters of stem cell research justify its continuation?

They argue its health benefits outweigh moral concerns. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of stem cells in differentiation?

To guide the development of specialized cells. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Why might research into adult stem cells be considered more ethically acceptable?

They pose no ethical concerns related to embryo use. (A) Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Specialized Cells

Cells with a specific structure and function, like muscle cells or nerve cells.

Stem Cells

Cells that can differentiate into specialized cells, like muscle cells or nerve cells.