Which type of stem cell can differentiate into any type of cell?

The correct answer is totipotent. Totipotent stem cells possess the unique ability to differentiate into any type of cell in the body, including both embryonic and extra-embryonic tissues. This means they can give rise to a complete organism, as they have the potential to form all cell types necessary for development, including those that form supporting structures like the placenta.

In contrast, pluripotent stem cells can differentiate into nearly all cell types but not extra-embryonic tissues, which limits their developmental potential slightly in comparison to totipotent stem cells. Multipotent stem cells can differentiate into a limited range of cell types, typically related to a specific tissue or organ, while unipotent stem cells can only create one type of cell, greatly restricting their differentiation capability. This hierarchical structure of stem cell potency showcases why totipotent stem cells hold the broadest potential in the differentiation landscape.