What are stem cells characterized by?

Stem cells are characterized by their unique ability to remain unspecialized while having the potential to differentiate into various cell types. This characteristic allows them to contribute to tissue development and repair throughout an organism's life. They can divide and produce more stem cells (self-renewal) as well as differentiate into specialized types of cells, such as muscle, nerve, or blood cells.

The ability to become any type of cell gives stem cells significant importance in fields such as regenerative medicine and developmental biology. This versatility is a critical aspect of their function, distinguishing them from other cell types that have already committed to a specific lineage and lost the ability to transform into different kinds of cells.