Adult stem cells, found in many organs and tissues, are only partially differentiated and are able to renew themselves. In most cases, they can differentiate to yield all the major specialized cell types of that tissue or organ, allowing regeneration and repair after damage.
Unlike adult stem cells, pluripotent stem cells have the potential to differentiate into all cells of the three germ layers (endoderm, ectoderm and mesoderm).
Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) are created when adult stem cells are reprogrammed and have proven to be an invaluable tool for research. You can find more information on adult stem cells and iPSCs on our
stem cells application page.