Question

Stem cells are self-renewing, undifferentiated cells that divide by mitosis to produce specific body cell types. There are two broad types of stem cells, namely, adult and embryonic.
Which of the following is correct?

• A. An injury to the nerves of the spinal cord can always be corrected by adult stem cells.
• B. Embryonic stem cells cannot differentiate into adult nerve cells.
• C. Embryonic stem cells can potentially replace damaged nerve cells of the spinal cord.
• D. All the above statements are correct.

Answer 1

The correct option is C Embryonic stem cells can potentially replace damaged nerve cells of the spinal cord.

The embryonic stem cells are found in the umbilical cord and have the immense capability of dividing and replacing the damaged cells. When there is any injury in the nerve cells of the brain or the spinal cord, the nerve cells cannot divide normally. The embryonic stem cells can be used to replace the nerve cells which are damaged.

Thus, the correct answer is option C.