[Campbell Biology P.481] The text discusses two major potential uses of human iPS cells: as ... | Practice Question

The text discusses two major potential uses of human iPS cells: as disease models and for regenerative medicine. Considering the "WHAT IF?" section, what is a primary advantage of using patient-specific iPS cells in regenerative medicine compared to traditional organ transplantation, and what significant risk is highlighted for iPS cell therapy itself?

  • A: Advantage: Faster patient recovery; Risk: High cost of the procedure.
  • B: Advantage: Overcomes ethical objections to human embryos; Risk: Differentiation into wrong cell types.
  • C: Advantage: Avoids the risk of immune rejection; Risk: Potential for tumor formation from actively dividing, undifferentiated cells.
  • D: Advantage: Allows for direct gene editing of diseased cells; Risk: Limited availability of donor iPS cell banks.

Explanation

The "WHAT IF?" section explicitly states that using a patient's own iPS cells would avoid immune rejection, a significant risk in organ transplantation. It also highlights the risk of "actively dividing, undifferentiated cells" possibly leading to tumor formation.