Briefly describe the stem cells and their properties.
Stem cells are non-specialised cells with an inherent property of self-renewal and potency. They have the potential for self-renewal via mitotic cell division and can differentiate into a wide range of specialised cell types. Stem cells are present in most multi-cellular organisms and can endure adverse conditions for long-time periods.
The main properties of stem cells include: they are unspecialised cells with the ability to renew themselves and differentiate into a diverse range of cell types. On the basis of potency, stem cells are classified into totipotent, pluripotent, multipotent, and unipotent cells. In humans, stem cells are found in umbilical cord, placenta, inner cell mass of early embryo, few tissues of foetus and some adult organs.
Explanation
The answer covers the definition and key properties of stem cells as mentioned in the textbook context. The first paragraph defines stem cells and mentions their basic characteristics - being non-specialised, self-renewal, potency, and ability to endure adverse conditions. The second paragraph elaborates on their properties including classification based on potency (totipotent, pluripotent, multipotent, unipotent) and their locations in humans. Key terms are bolded as per the marking scheme requirements for a 3-mark short answer question.