Precursor cell

In cell biology, a precursor cell, also called a blast cell or simply blast, is a partially differentiated cell, usually referred to as a unipotent cell that has lost most of its stem cell properties. A precursor cell is also known as a progenitor cell but progenitor cells are multipotent. Precursor cells are known as the intermediate cell before they become differentiated after being a stem cell.[1]

Precursor Cell
Cytology of a precursor (blast) cell, with features often seen even after partial differentiation into any of the more specific cell types. Wright's stain.
Identifiers
NeuroLex ID	sao467424240
Anatomical terms of microanatomy

Two myeloblasts with Auer rods.

Usually, a precursor cell is a stem cell with the capacity to differentiate into only one cell type. Sometimes, precursor cell is used as an alternative term for unipotent stem cells. In embryology, precursor cells are a group of cells that later differentiate into one organ.

A blastoma is any cancer created by malignancies of precursor cells.

Precursor cells, and progenitor cells, have many potential uses in medicine. As of 2017, there is research being done to use these cells to build heart valves, blood vessels and other tissues, by using blood and muscle precursor, or progenitor cells.[2]