Which type of cells can differentiate into specialized cells in a multi-cellular organism?

Stem cells are unique types of cells in multi-cellular organisms that possess the remarkable ability to differentiate into various specialized cell types. This means that they can mature and develop into specific cells with distinct functions, such as muscle cells, nerve cells, or blood cells.

The defining characteristic of stem cells is their pluripotency or multipotency, depending on their type. Pluripotent stem cells, like embryonic stem cells, can give rise to nearly all cell types in the body, while multipotent stem cells, such as adult stem cells found in certain tissues, can differentiate into a limited range of cells related to their tissue of origin.

In contrast, prokaryotic cells are simple, unicellular organisms, such as bacteria, and do not have the capability to differentiate into specialized cells. Red blood cells are already specialized cells that have specific functions related to oxygen transport and do not have the ability to develop into other cell types. Similarly, bone cells are also specialized cells that form part of the skeletal structure and do not differentiate into other types of cells. Therefore, stem cells are the only option that correctly represents cells capable of differentiation into various specialized forms.