OCR General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) Biology Practice Exam

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Get ready for the OCR GCSE Biology exam with our comprehensive quiz, featuring flashcards and multiple choice questions. Understand the exam format, key topics, and effective study strategies to excel.

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What is a major disadvantage of stem cells?

They can turn into any type of cell
They cannot divide
They can't turn into any type of cell
They are not useful for research

The correct answer is: They can't turn into any type of cell

The correct answer highlights a significant limitation concerning stem cells. While stem cells have the unique ability to differentiate into various cell types, this potential is subject to specific conditions and limitations. Not all stem cells are pluripotent, meaning they do not have the capability to turn into any type of cell. For example, some adult stem cells are multipotent, which restricts them to differentiating into a limited number of cell types related to their tissue of origin. This selective differentiation affects their applications in regenerative medicine and research, as researchers may not be able to generate the exact cell type needed for specific therapies or studies. Understanding this limitation is crucial, as advancements in stem cell research often aim to overcome these challenges. By both recognizing their potential and their restrictions, scientists can explore better methods for harnessing stem cells for therapeutic purposes.