Assignment:
Stem cells are the basis for every organ and tissue in our bodies. We continually rely on stem cells to replace and rejuvenate tissues lost every day, such as hair, blood, and skin. Stem cells have two important properties: self-renewal (making copies) and differentiation, which lead to the cells that make up our organ and tissue systems.
First:
Review
Understanding Stem CellsPreview the document [PDF] from the National Academies
Stem Cell Facts [PDF] from the International Society for Stem Cell Research
View
What are stem cells? [Video] by Craig A. Kohn
Submit the following:
Do not forget to include in-text citations and complete APA style references for all sources.
Worksheet: The Therapeutic Value of Stem Cells
Objective: To understand the therapeutic value of stem cells
About tissue stem cells:
Stem cells are one of the most amazing types of cells because they can make both (1)__and (2)_____.
1. We need stem cells in our bodies. What would happen to you if you did not have stem cells?
Question 1 used with permission of EuroStemCell. (Creative Commons license)
2. Describe the systematic process a multipotent or somatic stem cell would go through in giving rise to multiple components of the nervous system. Use correct cell names and terms in your description. Refer to the diagram in your reading "Stem Cell Facts" from the International Society for Stem Cell Research (ISSCR) (under Tissue-specific stem cells).
Therapeutic value of stem cells:
First: Read the article from US News and World Report:
3. Provide one more reason why Doctor Chazenbalk is doing this research.
4. What are these special types of cells called?
5. Why are Doctor Chazenbalk and other researchers eager to use this technique with a specific type of cell to study heart disease?