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Chapter 13: Problem 11

What are the two criteria that must be fulfilled in order to identify a cell as a "stem cell'?

Short Answer

Expert verified
Answer: The two criteria that must be fulfilled for a cell to be classified as a stem cell are: 1) self-renewal, which refers to the cell's ability to divide and create more cells of the same type while maintaining their undifferentiated state, and 2) differentiation potential, which means that the stem cell must have the capability to give rise to specialized cells with specific functions in the body.

Step by step solution

01

Criterion 1: Self-Renewal

The first criterion that must be fulfilled is the cell's ability to self-renew. This means that stem cells must be able to divide and create more cells of the same type while maintaining their undifferentiated state. This self-renewal characteristic allows stem cells to continually replenish themselves and maintain a stable population within their niche.
02

Criterion 2: Differentiation Potential

The second criterion is the ability of a stem cell to differentiate into specialized cell types. Differentiation potential means that stem cells must have the capability to give rise to specialized cells that have specific functions in the body, such as nerve cells, muscle cells, or blood cells. There are different types of stem cells with varying degrees of differentiation potential - some can give rise to all cell types, while others are limited to specific lineages or tissues.

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Most popular questions from this chapter

Which is not possible a role (other than neurogenesis) of stem cells in treating CNS disorders? a. Stem cells can be utilized as vehicles for gene therapy b. Stem cells can inhibit effector T-cell activities, reducing autoimmune inflammation c. Stem cells can actively uptake and degrade neurotoxins d. None of the above

Which is not a complication for embryonic or fetal stem cell transplant therapy? a. Transplanted cell are recognized by the immune system as foreign and are rejected b. Some cultural ethics oppose the use of embryonic and fetal stem cells c. Transplanted cells preferably differentiate to microglia rather than neurons d. Transplanted embryonic stem cells may form teratomas

Discuss the positive and negative effects inflammation has on neurogenesis.

List some of the roles of stromal cell-derived factor 1 (SDF-1) in CNS development and homeostasis.

Discuss the role of Notch signaling in regulating stem cell self-renewal versus differentiation.
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