Stem cells and meristemsSpec 2.8
In short
A stem cell is an undifferentiated cell that can divide to make more cells and differentiate into specialised cells. Embryonic stem cells can become any type of cell, while adult stem cells, such as those in bone marrow, can only become a limited range. In plants, meristems at root and shoot tips can produce any type of plant cell.
A stem cell is an undifferentiated cell. It can divide to make more cells and can differentiate to become specialised cells.
| Type | Function |
|---|---|
| Embryonic stem cells | Found in early embryos. They can differentiate into any type of cell, so they produce all the specialised cells as the embryo develops. |
| Stem cells in animals (adult stem cells) | Found in some tissues, such as bone marrow. They can differentiate into only a limited range of cell types. They replace cells that are damaged or worn out, for example bone marrow makes new blood cells. |
| Meristems in plants | Found at the tips of roots and shoots. The cells divide and can differentiate into any type of plant cell, so the plant can keep growing throughout its life. |
Exam tip:
Be precise: embryonic stem cells can become any type of cell, but adult stem cells can only become some types.
Written and checked against the Edexcel GCSE Biology (1BI0) specification · Updated October 2026