Question

A family member asks the nurse, "What do they mean when they start talking about stem cells?"

a) Cells with a rigid structure
b) Cells involved in immune response
c) Undifferentiated cells with the potential to become various cell types
d) Cells responsible for blood clotting

Answer 1

Stem cells are undifferentiated cells with the potential to become various cell types. They are responsible for the continuous differentiation of blood cells. These cells can differentiate into different types of cells within given lineages.

Step-by-step explanation:

Stem cells are undifferentiated cells with the potential to become various cell types. They are not cells with a rigid structure, cells involved in immune response, or cells responsible for blood clotting. Stem cells can differentiate into different types of cells within a given cell lineage or a small number of lineages, such as red blood cells or white blood cells. These cells are present throughout adulthood and allow for the continuous differentiation of blood cells to replace those lost to age or function.