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.

Answered by Emily Jill D. Biology tutor

2499 Views

See similar Biology GCSE tutors

Related Biology GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Explain the difference between the terms Phenotype and Genotype


Amylase is the enzyme that controls the breakdown of starch to glucose. Describe how the student could investigate the effect of pH on the breakdown of starch by amylase.


Sexual Reproduction: How does a sperm and egg form a baby?


Name three cell structures that are present in a plant cell but absent from an animal cell.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences