Consider the three different types of stem cells. Each one’s ability to differentiate into new cells is slightly different. One type can differentiate into any cell, while another can only become specific cells. Select the answer that places the three types in the correct order, from widest range of differentiation to least able to differentiate (specific).(1 point)

Question

Responses

totipotent, multipotent, pluripotent
totipotent, multipotent, pluripotent

pluripotent, totipotent, multipotent
pluripotent, totipotent, multipotent

pluripotent, multipotent, totipotent
pluripotent, multipotent, totipotent

totipotent, pluripotent, multipotent

Answer 1

The correct order of the three types of stem cells, from the widest range of differentiation to the least able to differentiate (specific), is:

totipotent, pluripotent, multipotent.

• Totipotent stem cells can differentiate into any cell type, including both embryonic and extra-embryonic tissues.
• Pluripotent stem cells can differentiate into almost any cell type (all three germ layers) but cannot form extra-embryonic tissues.
• Multipotent stem cells are limited to differentiating into a specific set of cell types.

So, the correct response is:

totipotent, pluripotent, multipotent.