Which type of stem cell undergoes asymmetrical division?

Prepare for the Arizona State University BME100 Biomedical Engineering Midterm Exam. Enhance your skills with quizzes, flashcards, and detailed explanations. Ace your exam!

Asymmetrical division is a crucial mechanism in stem cell biology that allows for the maintenance of a stem cell population while generating differentiated cells. Adult stem cells primarily undergo this type of division. They can self-renew and produce differentiated progeny that contribute to tissue repair and regeneration throughout an individual's life.

In contrast, embryonic stem cells are known for their ability to differentiate into any cell type in the body but do not typically exhibit asymmetrical division to the same extent as adult stem cells. Xenogenic and allogenic cells refer to classifications of cells based on their source in relation to the host organism, often in the context of transplantation, rather than a property of division or stemness. Hence, the characteristic of asymmetrical division is distinctly associated with adult stem cells, making this the correct choice.

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