Stem Cells and Regeneration · USMLE Step 1

Which statement best reflects why some tissues (e.g., brain, heart) have poor regenerative capacity despite the presence of stem cells in the body overall?

  1. Their resident stem cells are totipotent rather than multipotent
  2. Their niche does not support effective stem cell activation
  3. They lack the blood supply necessary for proper stem cell function
  4. They undergo continuous inflammation preventing regeneration
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Correct answer: Their niche does not support effective stem cell activation

Poor regenerative capacity in certain tissues often reflects the absence of a supportive niche or insufficient activation of resident stem cells, limiting their ability to replace lost cells effectively. Stem cell presence alone does not guarantee regeneration.

Difficulty: Medium Question 11 of 20

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