In adult animals,          are a source of undifferentiated cells that can divide to produce cells that can specialize.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the missing term in the sentence. The sentence describes a type of cell that remains undifferentiated and can divide to produce specialized cells.
2. Recognize that the cells being described are those that can differentiate into various types of cells depending on the needs of the organism.
3. Recall that in adult animals, these cells are typically referred to as 'stem cells'.
4. Understand that stem cells are crucial for growth, repair, and maintenance in adult animals as they replenish other cells.
5. Fill in the blank with 'stem cells' to complete the sentence: 'In adult animals, stem cells are a source of undifferentiated cells that can divide to produce cells that can specialize.'

Key Concepts

Stem Cells

Stem cells are undifferentiated cells capable of self-renewal and differentiation into various specialized cell types. In adult animals, these cells are primarily found in specific tissues and play a crucial role in growth, repair, and maintenance of the organism. Their ability to divide and produce specialized cells makes them essential for regenerative medicine and understanding developmental biology.

Cell Differentiation

Cell differentiation is the process by which unspecialized cells, such as stem cells, develop into specialized cells with distinct functions. This process is influenced by various factors, including genetic regulation and environmental signals. Understanding differentiation is vital for comprehending how complex tissues and organs form and function in multicellular organisms.

Tissue Regeneration

Tissue regeneration refers to the process by which organisms repair or replace damaged tissues. In adult animals, stem cells contribute to this process by proliferating and differentiating into the necessary cell types to restore tissue integrity. This ability varies among species and is a key area of research for developing therapies for injuries and degenerative diseases.