What aer the two primary characteristics that distinguish hematopoietic stem cells and progenitor cells?

The two primary characteristics that distinguish hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) from progenitor cells are:

1. Self-Renewal Capability:
   • Hematopoietic Stem Cells: HSCs have the ability to self-renew, meaning they can divide and produce more stem cells with the same properties as the original stem cell. This allows for the long-term maintenance of the stem cell pool throughout an individual’s life.
   • Progenitor Cells: Progenitor cells do not have self-renewal capability. They are more differentiated than stem cells and can only produce a limited number of additional progenitor cells or mature blood cells. Once they differentiate, they lose the ability to generate more progenitor cells.
2. Differentiation Potential:
   • Hematopoietic Stem Cells: HSCs are pluripotent, meaning they have the potential to differentiate into all types of blood cells, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. They can give rise to various lineages through intermediate progenitor stages.
   • Progenitor Cells: Progenitor cells are more lineage-specific and have a restricted differentiation potential. They are committed to a particular lineage (e.g., myeloid or lymphoid) and can differentiate into more specialized cell types within that lineage but not into cells outside of it.