Question

What are some examples of unipotent cells?

Answer 1

Hint: Stem cells can be defined as a mass of undifferentiated or partially differentiated cells that can differentiate and proliferate to produce more of the same stem cell. Unipotent cells also known as precursor cells are a type of stem cells which have the ability to differentiate and create only one particular cell type. Unipotent cells also have the ability to self-renew and divide infinitely.

Complete answer:
Unipotent cells have the ability to reproduce multiple times, which makes them a long-term source of one particular type of cell. It also forms the property that distinguishes unipotent cells from other non-stem cells.
For example, spermatogenic stem cells are cells that give rise to mature sperms upon differentiation. No other cell types can be formed from this stem cell. The spermatogenic stem cells can also divide infinitely to produce more sperms.
Another example of unipotent cells is the skin stem cells. They are found under the epidermis.In the event of an injury these cells proliferate extensively to form new skin. In general, unipotent stem cells can be found in any tissue which has the ability to regenerate on a regular basis.
The blast forming block erythroid also known as erythroid precursor cells differentiate and give rise to erythrocytes or red blood cells.

Note:
Unipotent cells have the ability to proliferate, self-renew and divide asymmetrically to produce one copy of itself and one differentiated cell. These precursor cells remain functionally inactive till they differentiate into a cell type that they are destined to become. They usually remain dormant as a side population in a tissue. When required they mobilize, proliferate and differentiate.