Stem Cells and Regeneration · USMLE Step 1

Which of the following is true about symmetric vs. asymmetric division of stem cells in a tissue niche?

  1. Asymmetric division produces two identical stem cells every time
  2. Symmetric division always immediately leads to differentiation
  3. Asymmetric division yields one stem and one differentiated cell
  4. Symmetric division is never observed in any adult tissue
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Correct answer: Asymmetric division yields one stem and one differentiated cell

In asymmetric division, a stem cell divides to produce one daughter that remains a stem cell and one that differentiates — allowing continual maintenance of the stem cell pool while generating specialized daughter cells. This balances self-renewal and tissue regeneration.

Difficulty: Medium Question 15 of 20

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