Cell Specialization & Protein Synthesis

Front

What causes a stem cell to differentiate into a particular specialized cell?

Back

A specific set of chemical signals activate cell specific genes within the stem cell.

Front

Where can stem cells be obtained from?

Back

Embryos, some adult tissues, umbilical cord blood, all of the above.

Front

What is the process of copying a gene's DNA sequence into a sequence of RNA called?

Back

Transcription.

Front

What causes differentiation in cells?

Back

Only specific parts of the DNA are activated.

Front

Where does the process of mRNA being read and converted into a chain of amino acids occur?

Back

On a ribosome.

Front

What is cell specialization?

Back

The process by which generic cells change into specific cells meant to do certain tasks within the body.

Front

What role do chemical signals play in cell differentiation?

Back

They activate specific genes in stem cells, guiding them to become specialized cells.

Front

What is the function of ribosomes in protein synthesis?

Back

Ribosomes read mRNA and translate it into a chain of amino acids, forming proteins.

Front

What is the difference between transcription and translation?

Back

Transcription is the process of copying DNA to RNA, while translation is the process of converting RNA into a protein.

Front

What are the two main types of stem cells?

Back

Embryonic stem cells and adult stem cells.