How do cells involved in regeneration contribute to the formation of various cell types and tissues?

Cells involved in regeneration contribute to the formation of various cell types and tissues through dedifferentiation and transdifferentiation. Dedifferentiation involves the reversion of specialized cells to a less specialized state, forming a pool of pluripotent or multipotent cells. These cells then undergo proliferation and redifferentiation, giving rise to the diverse cell types needed for tissue regeneration. Transdifferentiation occurs when cells directly convert into different cell types without returning to a pluripotent state. This cellular plasticity allows for the flexible adjustment of cell fates, enabling the regeneration of specific tissues and structures required for the organism’s functional recovery after injury or damage.