Question

Immediately after an embryo forms, it begins to replicate new cells. What is the most likely type of cells that form during the first few divisions?

pluripotent cells


multipotent cells


oligopotent cells


totipotent cells

Answer 1

The most likely type of cells that form during the first few divisions after an embryo forms are totipotent cells. Totipotent cells have the potential to differentiate into any type of cell in the body and can give rise to both the embryonic and extraembryonic tissues. As the embryo continues to develop, these totipotent cells become more specialized and give rise to pluripotent and then multipotent cells.