Module B1: You and Your Genes

Module B1.4: What are stem cells, and why could they be useful in treating some diseases?

3. Understand how clones of animals occur:

• naturally, when cells of an embryo separate (identical twins);
• artificially, when the nucleus from an adult body cell is transferred to an empty unfertilised egg cell;

4. Recall that embryonic stem cells are unspecialised cells that can develop into any type of cell;

5. Understand that there is the potential to use stem cells to treat some illnesses;

7. In the context of cloning embryos to produce large numbers of stem cells to treat illnesses, can:

• say clearly what the issue is;
• summarise different views that may be held;
• identify and develop arguments based on the ideas that:
  • The right decision is the one which leads to the best outcome for the majority of people involved;
  • Certain actions are never justified because they are unnatural or wrong

Module B5: Growth and Development

Genetic technologies are at the cutting edge of contemporary science. Research into proteinomics, stem cell technology and cellular growth control is at the forefront of modern medical science. Knowledge and understanding of these areas promise powerful applications to benefit both present and future generations.

Module B5.3: How do new organisms develop from a single cell?

2. understand that in a human embryo, up to the eight cell stage, all the cells are identical and could produce any sort of cell required by the organism (embryonic stem cells);

3. understand that after this point the cells become specialised and form different types of tissue;

4. understand that although body cells in an organism contain the same genes, many genes in a particular cell are not active because it only produces the specific proteins it needs;

6. understand that adult and embryonic stem cells have the potential to produce cells needed to replace damaged tissues;