The defining characteristic of a stem cell is
A)self-repair.
B)self-renewal.
C)the ability to turn into a cancer cell.
D)its origin from a progenitor cell.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The ability of stem cells to self-renew and differentiate into various cell types is their defining characteristic.

Note: Option A is not specific to stem cells as many cells have the ability to self-repair. Option C is incorrect as stem cells do not turn into cancer cells. Option D is not a defining characteristic as all cells originate from progenitor cells during development.

The Defining Characteristic of a Stem Cell Is