# Embryonic stem cells and adult stem cells are both types of stem cell, but they differ in their ability to differentiate. Explain why embryonic stem cells are considered more useful than adult stem cells for treating a wide range of diseases, and describe where adult stem cells are found in the body.

> Edexcel A-Level Biology A: Salters-Nuffield (9BN0) — 2.1 Stem cells and cell potency · Explain · 5 marks

> Scientists are researching how stem cells could be used to treat conditions such as diabetes and heart disease. They are comparing the potential uses of embryonic stem cells and adult stem cells.

## Mark scheme (5 marks)

1. Embryonic stem cells can differentiate into any cell type (are totipotent/pluripotent)
2. Adult stem cells can only differentiate into a limited range of cell types
3. Because embryonic stem cells can become any cell type, they can be used to replace a wider variety of damaged or diseased cells/tissues
4. Adult stem cells are found in bone marrow (as a named example)
5. Cell differentiation is the process by which an undifferentiated stem cell becomes specialised for its function

## Key terms

- [embryonic stem cells](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/embryonic-stem-cells)
- [adult stem cells](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/adult-stem-cells)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Edexcel A-Level Biology A: Salters-Nuffield (9BN0)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/embryonic-stem-cells-and-adult-stem-a2f3498d) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.