What are embryonic stem cells? Why are stem cells useful to doctors + why this discovery may make fewer people object to their use

Embryonic stem cells are unspecialised or undifferentiated. This means they can divide to form any type of cell. Embryonic stem cells could be used in medicine to replace damaged cells. This could treat diseases such as Parkinson's disease, diabetes or blood and heart disorders. Embryos are usually destroyed when the stem cells are extracted from them. Sometimes people object for ethical reasons or religious beliefs. In other words, some argue that each embryo has the potential to develop into a human being. As with many medical procedures, there are associated risks including the transfer of viral infection between embryo and host.

EJ
Answered by Emily Jill D. Biology tutor

2820 Views

See similar Biology GCSE tutors

Related Biology GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Describe how the structure of ATP is similar to and differs from the structure of a DNA nucleotide.


Name 3 barriers against infection


Explain how a recessive phenotype can be produced from two parents with a dominant phenotype


Explain how a simple reflex works, you answer should include a) one type of receptor and the stimulus that the receptor detects. b) how information is passed from the receptor to the effector


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences