Question

Embryonic development is marked by rapid cell division which occurs by stem cells. These cells don't adhere to the body surfaces and remain undifferentiated. Stem cells are classified on the basis of their ability to differentiate into various cell types. Mark the statement which defines the correct potent cell?

• A. Totipotent cells have the ability to differentiate to all the cell types except extraembryonic tissues.
• B. The Pluripotent cells have the ability to differentiate into three germ layers in ctenophores.
• C. Pluripotency can be induced in somatic cells.
• D. The Pluripotent cells can differentiate into all cell types including extraembryonic tissues.

Answer 1

Answer: (C)

Pluripotency can be induced in somatic cells.

Answer 2

Totipotent cells can form all embryonic and extraembryonic tissues. Pluripotent cells can form all cell types of the embryo proper (from three germ layers) but not extraembryonic tissues. Multipotent cells can differentiate into a limited range of cell types within a specific lineage. Unipotent cells can differentiate into only one cell type. Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells (iPSCs) are generated by reprogramming somatic cells to a pluripotent state, making statement (C) correct.