What are adult stem cells also known as?

Adult stem cells are commonly referred to as somatic stem cells. These are specialized cells found throughout the body after development, and their primary function is to maintain and repair the tissue in which they reside. Unlike embryonic stem cells, which are derived from early-stage embryos and can develop into any cell type, somatic stem cells are more limited in their differentiation potential.

The term "somatic" specifically indicates that these stem cells are sourced from the body's tissues (somatic cells), and they usually have the ability to differentiate into a limited range of cell types pertinent to their tissue of origin. This quality is essential for tissue homeostasis and regeneration.

Adult stem cells do not include the other types mentioned; embryonic stem cells are gathered from embryos, induced pluripotent stem cells are reprogrammed adult cells that behave like embryonic stem cells, and multipotent stem cells can give rise to multiple cell types but are not synonymous with adult stem cells. Thus, somatic stem cells most accurately describe adult stem cells.