Summary
Capacity to form all body cell types, as in embryonic stem cells, but not a whole organism.
In depth
Pluripotent cells express Oct4, Sox2 and Nanog and can form all three germ layers but not the placenta. Naive and primed states exist. They can be tested by teratoma formation or tetraploid complementation.
Pluripotency is maintained by a network of transcription factors and signals such as LIF/STAT3 (mouse). Induced pluripotent cells show similar properties. Culture conditions determine state.
Example: teratomas formed from pluripotent cells contain several tissues.
Frequently asked questions
What is Pluripotency?
Capacity to form all body cell types, as in embryonic stem cells, but not a whole organism.
Which area of biology covers Pluripotency, and how advanced is it?
Pluripotency is one of the 54 topics in Developmental Biology. It is rated Intermediate, so it suits learners who already know the core vocabulary. Related topics in this area include Embryonic Stem Cells, Totipotency, Gastruloids.
Can you give an example of Pluripotency?
Human ESCs differentiate into neurons, heart cells and insulin-producing cells.
What should I learn before Pluripotency?
Work through the Beginner topics in Developmental Biology first, such as Fertilisation, Zygote, Embryo, then return to Pluripotency. Intermediate topics assume the Beginner vocabulary.
What topics are related to Pluripotency?
The closest topics to Pluripotency are Embryonic Stem Cells, Totipotency, Gastruloids, Blastula. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Pluripotency?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Pluripotency. To practise the whole of Developmental Biology, use the Developmental Biology quiz.
How is Pluripotency different from Embryonic Stem Cells?
Pluripotency: Capacity to form all body cell types, as in embryonic stem cells, but not a whole organism. Embryonic Stem Cells: Pluripotent cells from the blastocyst inner cell mass that can be grown and directed in culture. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study Pluripotency step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Embryonic Stem Cells and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Developmental Biology quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.