A Level Biology Practice Exam

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What are stem cells characterized by?

Being fully differentiated cells
Having the potential to differentiate into specialized cell types
Only existing in plants
Being non-reproductive

The correct answer is: Having the potential to differentiate into specialized cell types

Stem cells are characterized by their ability to differentiate into various specialized cell types. This unique property allows them to give rise to different tissues and cell types, playing a crucial role in growth, development, and repair in organisms. Stem cells can be classified into two main categories: embryonic stem cells, which can differentiate into nearly any cell type, and adult stem cells, which are more limited in their differentiation potential but still serve important functions in tissue maintenance and repair. While fully differentiated cells serve specific functions, they do not have the potential to revert to a stem cell state or differentiate further, which sets them apart from stem cells. Stem cells also exist in both plants and animals, contrary to the statement about being exclusive to plants, and while stem cells can be involved in reproductive processes (such as gametes in the case of germline stem cells), they are not strictly defined by their reproductive capabilities.