Scientists are researching the use of stem cells to treat patients with type 1 diabetes. In type 1 diabetes, the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas are destroyed. Explain how embryonic stem cells could be used to treat this condition.
Written & reviewed by James Millett — Biology (Imperial College London), PGCE Science (University of Cambridge).
Type 1 diabetes is a condition in which the body's immune system destroys the specialised cells in the pancreas that produce insulin. Researchers believe stem cell therapy could offer a long-term treatment.
Model answer (4 marks)
Embryonic stem cells are undifferentiated cells that can become any cell type.
They are pluripotent, so they can be directed to develop into insulin‑producing β‑cells.
Once differentiated, these β‑cells can be transplanted into the patient.
The transplanted cells then produce insulin, restoring normal glucose regulation.
They are pluripotent, so they can be directed to develop into insulin‑producing β‑cells.
Once differentiated, these β‑cells can be transplanted into the patient.
The transplanted cells then produce insulin, restoring normal glucose regulation.
Examiner tips
- Use the terms "undifferentiated" and "pluripotent". Show the step of directing differentiation. Mention transplantation and insulin production. Keep each point brief and to the point.
Common mistakes
- Calling embryonic stem cells totipotent instead of pluripotent. Forgetting to state that the cells are directed to become β‑cells. Not linking the new cells to restored insulin production.
Mark scheme (4 marks)
- Embryonic stem cells are unspecialised / undifferentiated cells
- Stem cells can differentiate into any type of cell (are totipotent / pluripotent)
- The stem cells could be directed / induced to differentiate into insulin-producing cells
- These new insulin-producing cells could be transplanted into the patient to restore normal insulin production
Key terms in this question
stem cells · embryonic stem cells · insulin-producing cells
Related
- All WJEC GCSE Biology (Wales) revision notes →
- How to answer a "Explain" question →
- Decode the mark scheme abbreviations →
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