Question

stem cells are undifferentiated cells that have the ability to continue to grow and divide in their non - specialized state for long periods of time (e.g., months or years). although the genes found within stem cells are the same, stem cells differentiate into unique cell types (e.g., muscle cells, nerve cells, etc.) due to

a. mutations in their genetic code.

b. meiotic division and fertilization.

c. random segregation and proliferation.

d. different patterns in their gene expression.

Explanation:

Stem - cell differentiation is due to differential gene expression. All stem - cells have the same genetic code, so it's not due to mutations. Meiosis and fertilization are related to sexual reproduction, not stem - cell differentiation. Random segregation and proliferation do not explain differentiation into specific cell types. Different patterns of gene expression lead to the development of different cell types from stem - cells.

Answer:

D. different patterns in their gene expression