Question

Which of the following statements are correct for stem cell?
(A). Stem cells can be obtained from blastocysts.
(B). Embryonic stem cells can be grown in the laboratory.
(C). Stem cells are specialized cell.
(D). They can divide and renew for a long period.
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

• A. (A), (B) and (C) only.
• B. (A), (B) and (D) only.
• C. (A), (B), (C) and (D).
• D. (B), (C) and (D) only.

Hint:

A stem cell is defined by two core characteristics:
1. Self-renewal: The ability to divide repeatedly without differentiating.
2. Potency: The capacity to differentiate into various specialized cell types.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Stem cells are undifferentiated biological cells that can differentiate into specialized cells and divide through mitosis to produce more stem cells (self-renewal).

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
- Statement A is correct: Embryonic stem cells (ESCs) are harvested from the inner cell mass of the blastocyst (an early stage of embryonic development).
- Statement B is correct: Isolated ESCs can be cultured and maintained indefinitely in an undifferentiated state in the laboratory under specific media conditions.
- Statement C is incorrect: Stem cells are unspecialized (undifferentiated) cells. They only become specialized cells (like muscle, nerve, or red blood cells) after undergoing differentiation.
- Statement D is correct: A defining property of stem cells is self-renewal, the ability to undergo numerous cycles of cell division while maintaining their undifferentiated state over long periods.
- Therefore, statements (A), (B), and (D) are correct.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The correct statements regarding stem cells are (A), (B), and (D) only.