All of the following are true regarding induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells except __________.

• A. iPS cell technology may provide a more morally acceptable approach to therapeutic cloning
• B. the reprogramming of diseased cells in humans to form iPS cells could provide model systems for studying the origins of the disease
• C. iPS cell technology could offer the potential to regenerate nonfunctional or diseased tissues and avoid the risk of transplant rejection in the diseased patient
• D. iPS cells are formed by added genes to the genome of differentiated skin cells
• E. iPS cells have been demonstrated to function identically to embryonic stems cells

Answer: (E)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells: iPS cells are a type of stem cell that can be generated directly from adult cells. They are pluripotent, meaning they can differentiate into almost any cell type.
2. Review the statements provided in the problem: Each statement describes a characteristic or potential application of iPS cells.
3. Identify the statement that is not true about iPS cells: The problem asks for the exception, meaning the statement that does not accurately describe iPS cells.
4. Analyze the statement about iPS cells functioning identically to embryonic stem cells: While iPS cells share many characteristics with embryonic stem cells, they are not identical in function. Differences in gene expression and epigenetic marks can lead to variations in behavior and potential.
5. Conclude that the statement 'iPS cells have been demonstrated to function identically to embryonic stem cells' is the exception, as iPS cells have not been shown to function identically in all aspects to embryonic stem cells.