A progenitor cell is a type of biological cell that has the ability to differentiate into another cell type. This ability is shared by both stem cells and progenitor cells. Stem cells, on the other hand, are less defined than progenitor cells. Only their "target" cell type can develop from progenitor cells. The most significant distinction between stem cells and progenitor cells is that stem cells can multiply eternally while progenitor cells can only divide once. The specific definition is still up for debate, and the concept is continually changing. The phrases "progenitor cell" and "stem cell" are frequently used interchangeably. The majority of progenitors are found to be oligopotent. They are comparable to adult stem cells in this regard; however, progenitors are thought to be at a later stage of cell development. Between stem cells and fully developed cells, they are in the "middle." The potency of these stem cells is determined by the type of "parent" stem cell as well as their habitat. According to certain studies, progenitor cells are mobile, meaning they may travel across the body and migrate to the tissues where they are needed. Adult stem cells and progenitor cells have a lot in common.
Title : Electroactive polymer-based smart scaffolds for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine
Federico Carpi, University of Florence, Italy