Stem cellsSpec 17.2.5
- Stem cell
- An unspecialised cell that divides by mitosis to produce daughter cells that can become specialised for specific functions.
Stem cells are unspecialised. They divide by mitosis to make daughter cells. Some of these daughter cells stay as stem cells, so the supply is not used up. Others become specialised for specific functions, such as a red blood cell or a nerve cell.
Cells become specialised because only some of their genes are expressed. This links to gene expression: the genes that are switched on decide which proteins the cell makes, and so what the cell can do.
Common mistake:
Do not say that stem cells 'turn into' any cell. Say that stem cells divide by mitosis and the daughter cells can become specialised.