The term "pluripotent" refers to a type of stem cell that has the ability to develop into almost any cell type in the body. This means that pluripotent cells can differentiate into various specialized cells, such as muscle, nerve, or blood cells. They play a crucial role in early development and have significant potential for medical research and therapies. Pluripotent stem cells can be derived from two main sources: embryonic stem cells, which come from early-stage embryos, and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), which are created by reprogramming adult cells. Both types hold promise for regenerative medicine, allowing scientists to study diseases and develop new treatments.