Properties of Stem Cells: The Key to Regeneration and Differentiation
Definition
Stem cells
Stem cells are undifferentiated cells with the unique ability to divide endlessly and differentiate into various specialized cell types.
What Makes Stem Cells Unique?
- Self-Renewal: Stem cells can divide repeatedly, theoretically without limit. This maintains a steady reservoir of undifferentiated cells throughout an organism’s lifetime.
- Potency: Stem cells have the ability to differentiate into specialized cell types depending on the signals they receive.
- Totipotent (e.g., zygote): Can become any cell type, including extra-embryonic tissues.
- Pluripotent: Can form all cell types within the organism (but not extra-embryonic tissues).
- Multipotent: Can generate several related cell types (e.g., hematopoietic stem cells producing all types of blood cells).
Definition
Differentiation
Differentiation is the process where pluripotent cells (unspecialized cells) develop into specialized cells with unique structures and functions.
Totipotent stem cells are only present in the earliest stages of embryonic development, while multipotent stem cells persist in adult tissues to aid in repair and regeneration.
Why Is Division Important?
The ability of stem cells to divide endlessly is essential for:
