Which cells are defined as having the potential to differentiate into multiple cell types?

Stem cells are defined as having the potential to differentiate into multiple cell types due to their unique characteristics. They possess the ability to self-renew and can give rise to various specialized cells that make up different tissues and organs in the body. This differentiation capacity can be categorized into two main types: embryonic stem cells, which can develop into any cell type in the body, and adult (or somatic) stem cells, which are typically more limited and usually can differentiate into a narrower range of cell types related to the tissue they are found in.

In contrast, parent cells generally refer to cells that give rise to daughter cells but do not imply a broad differentiation potential like stem cells. Progenitor cells are typically more specialized than stem cells and have a limited capacity for differentiation; they can develop into a particular type of cell but not into multiple cell types. Specialized cells, on the other hand, have already differentiated and have a specific function, making them incapable of differentiating into other cell types. Therefore, stem cells stand out for their remarkable versatility in developing into various cell types, which is crucial for growth, development, and tissue repair.