The Use of Stem Cells in Treating Human Disorders

Totipotent cells can produce any type of body cell and are found in early mammalian embryos.
These cells only translate part of their DNA, leading to cell specialisation and only occurring for a limited time.
Pluripotent, multipotent and unipotent cells are found in mature mammals; each type can divide to form different numbers of various cell types.
Pluripotent cells can divide in unlimited numbers and are used in treating human disorders.
Unipotent cells can develop into one type, as seen in the formation of cardiomyocytes.
Induced pluripotent stem cells can be produced from adult cells using protein transcription factors.
Students should be able to evaluate stem cell use in treating disorders, comparing stem cell types, uses, locations, benefits, and limitations.
Students should consider the ethics of using each stem cell type.
The use of a mind map to revise each type of stem cell is recommended.