Progenitorsejt

Progenitorsejt, translated as progenitor cell, is a lineage-committed cell that arises from a stem cell and is capable of giving rise to a limited set of differentiated cell types. Unlike stem cells, progenitorsejt typically has a limited capacity for self-renewal and proliferates only a finite number of times before differentiating. These cells act as intermediates in tissue development and regeneration, supporting rapid expansion and differentiation to replenish specific cell pools.

Progenitor cells can be multipotent, oligopotent, or unipotent, depending on the breadth of their developmental potential. Examples include neural progenitor cells, which can differentiate into neurons, astrocytes, and oligodendrocytes; hematopoietic progenitors that give rise to red cells, white cells, and platelets within certain lineages; and mesenchymal progenitors that can form bone, cartilage, fat, and other connective tissues. Progenitors are often organized in cellular niches where signals from the environment regulate their fate decisions. Lineage tracing and marker studies help distinguish progenitors from stem cells and mature cells, though exact definitions can vary by tissue.

In medicine and research, progenitor cells are explored for their roles in development, tissue maintenance, and repair. They are also discussed in the context of cancer, where progenitor-like cells may contribute to tumor growth and resistance. Understanding progenitor cells helps illuminate how tissues replenish themselves after injury and how dysregulation can lead to disease.