Which statement accurately describes induced pluripotent stem cells (iPS cells)?

• A. They are derived from adult donors and can form any cell type
• B. They are embryonic stem cells
• C. They replace all traditional stem cell sources
• D. They have no clinical potential

Answer: (A)

Induced pluripotent stem cells come from adult somatic cells that are reprogrammed to a pluripotent state, giving them the ability to differentiate into many different cell types, similar to embryonic stem cells. Because they originate from adult donors rather than embryos, they capture the idea described as being derived from adult donors and able to form any cell type, which is why that statement is the best fit. They are not embryonic stem cells themselves, though they share key capabilities; they do not automatically replace all traditional stem cell sources, since other stem cell types remain important for various applications. They also hold significant clinical potential, but translating that potential into safe, effective treatments requires navigating safety and efficacy challenges.