[Campbell Biology P.479] Based on Figure 20.19, what is a key characteristic of a stem cell'... | Practice Question
Based on Figure 20.19, what is a key characteristic of a stem cell's division, and what types of cells can a progenitor cell differentiate into?
A: A stem cell can only divide into two progenitor cells; a progenitor cell can differentiate into all cell types.
B: A stem cell can divide into another stem cell and a progenitor cell; a progenitor cell can differentiate into specialized cell types like fat cells, bone cells, or white blood cells.
C: A stem cell directly differentiates into specialized cells without an intermediate progenitor stage.
D: Both stem cells and progenitor cells can reproduce themselves indefinitely without differentiation.
Explanation
Figure 20.19 clearly illustrates that a stem cell can undergo cell division to produce another stem cell and a progenitor cell or two of either type . The progenitor cell then differentiates into specialized cells, with examples given as fat cells, bone cells, and white blood cells.