Dictionary > Multipotent

Multipotent

Definition
adjective
Having the ability to differentiate to a limited number of cell fates or into closely related family of cells.
Supplement
Multipotent progenitor cells can give rise to many but limited types of cell. For example, a hematopoietic cell can give rise to several types of blood cells but not into brain cells or other types of cells.
Word origin: multi– ยป Latin multus much, many + – potent, have power, to be able.

Related forms: multipotency (noun).
Compare: unipotent, pluripotent, totipotent.

See also: potent.
Related terms:

  • multipotent cell

Last updated on July 28th, 2021

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