Cell Specialization and Differentiation

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What is cell specialization?

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

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What are stem cells?

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Stem cells are undifferentiated cells that have the potential to develop into many different cell types.

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What is differentiation?

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Differentiation is the process by which a less specialized cell becomes a more specialized cell type.

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What is the main difference between embryonic stem cells and adult stem cells?

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Embryonic stem cells can differentiate into more cell types than adult stem cells.

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Why do muscle cells and nerve cells look and function differently?

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Muscle and nerve cells have the same DNA but express different genes, leading to their specialized functions.

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What is a pluripotent stem cell?

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A pluripotent stem cell is a type of stem cell that can differentiate into almost any cell type.

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What is the role of gene expression in cell differentiation?

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Gene expression determines which proteins are produced in a cell, influencing its structure and function.

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What are the potential uses of stem cells in medicine?

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Stem cells can be used for regenerative medicine, treating diseases, and understanding developmental processes.

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What is the significance of cell specialization in multicellular organisms?

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Cell specialization allows for the division of labor among cells, enabling complex functions and systems in multicellular organisms.

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What is the process of genetic engineering?

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Genetic engineering is the manipulation of an organism's DNA to achieve desired traits, often used in research and medicine.