A cell taken from the embryo that can differentiate into any type of specialised cell.

A cell found in specific regions of the body that can differentiate into a limited number of related specialised cells.

A differentiated cell that is adapted to carry out a particular function.

When a patient’s immune system attacks non-self cells (e.g. transplants).

An ethical issue relates to whether an action and its consequences are right or wrong.

Using stem cells in medicine: potential benefits, risks and ethical issues

Combined science

Pupils will learn about the roles of hormones in human reproduction, including control of the menstrual cycle, and other uses of hormones such as in in contraception.

Pupils learned about growth through cell division, mitosis as part of the cell cycle, cancer as the result of changes in cells that lead to uncontrolled growth and division, and the formation of gametes by meiosis.

This unit explores the function of stem cells and the importance of cell differentiation. It discusses the benefits and risks of stem cell use in medicine, evaluates applications of science, and considers the personal, social, economic, and environmental implications of scientific decisions.

Stem cells and differentiation

Depiction or discussion of abortion, euthanasia, organ donation.

Depiction or discussion of sensitive content

The two types of stem cells in humans are adult stem cells and {{}} stem cells.

Which diseases can stem cells be used to help treat or have the potential to treat in the future?

Which is **not** a current use of stem cells?

embryonic stem cells can only differentiate into a few types of cells

Why do some people object to the harvesting of embryos as a source of embryonic stem cells?

the access to embryonic stem cells is limited

viruses can spread between stem cells in culture

there is difficulty in recruiting stem cell donors

stem cells can be rejected by the patient's body

Which of the following are risks of using stem cells?

Which type of stem cells are likely to cause an immune rejection?

True or false? Egg cells contain a nucleus.

Many mitochondria to provide energy for contraction.

Biconcave shape to provide a large surface area for diffusion.

Contains chloroplasts for photosynthesis.

Match the specialised cell to its adaptations that help it carry out its role.

True or false? Embryonic stem cells can only differentiate into a limited and related number of cells.

Andeep: Diabetes is where you have eaten too much sugar.

Sofia: There are two types of diabetes, type 1 and type 2.

Sam: Diabetes is when a person cannot control their blood sugar levels.

Lucas: Type 1 diabetes is where cells in the pancreas produce too much insulin.

The Oak students are discussing diabetes. Who is incorrect?

Bone marrow is found in bones, where it produces new bones.

Bone marrow is found on the surface of bones, where it helps them grow.

Bone marrow is found inside bones, where it produces red and white blood cells.

Bone marrow is found on the surface of bones, where it provides strength.

Bone marrow is found inside the bones, where it provides strength.

Select the option which correctly describes where bone marrow is found and one of its roles. 

Content guidance

Depiction or discussion of sensitive content

Adult supervision recommended

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