Progenitor Cells

Progenitor cells are a type of early descendant of stem cells that have the capacity to differentiate themselves into a specific type of cell, but are limited in their potential compared to stem cells. Unlike stem cells, progenitor cells have a finite number of cell divisions. They are often committed to differentiating into a particular cell lineage.

For example:

• Hematopoietic progenitor cells give rise to various types of blood cells (e.g., erythrocytes, leukocytes, platelets).
• Neuronal progenitor cells develop into different types of neurons and other brain cells.

Progenitor cells are crucial for tissue growth, repair, and maintenance.