Terminal differentiation refers to the process where a stem or progenitor cell becomes a fully specialized cell type that carries out specific functions but can no longer divide or return to a less specialized state. Various cell types undergo terminal differentiation, including:
- Neurons: Neural stem cells differentiate into neurons, which are specialized for signal transmission.
- Muscle Cells (Myocytes): Myoblasts differentiate into muscle fibers, which are specialized for contraction.
- Erythrocytes (Red Blood Cells): Hematopoietic stem cells differentiate into erythrocytes, which are specialized for oxygen transport.
- Adipocytes: Pre-adipocytes differentiate into adipocytes, which store fat.
- Keratinocytes: These skin cells undergo terminal differentiation to form the outermost layer of the skin, providing a barrier.
In general, many types of cells in the body undergo terminal differentiation as part of normal development and homeostasis.