ABSTRACT
Cell fate is established over the course of development. During early embryogenesis, neuroepithelial cells have the potential to form numerous cell subtypes. As development progresses, however, cells are exposed to various signals that restrict their cell fate options. Depending on the specific precursor and the signals available, a given cell may remain multipotent-that is, retain the ability to develop into more than one cell type-for an extended period. However, this ability only persists up until the time of cellular determination, the stage at which further embryonic development or experimental manipulation can no longer alter the type of cell that forms. Thus, the determined cell has acquired its fate. A determined cell will then begin to differentiate and ultimately acquire the unique cellular characteristics associated with a particular cellular subtype.
