From what do embryonic stem cells originate?

Embryonic stem cells originate specifically from embryos, particularly from the blastocyst stage, which is an early stage of embryonic development that occurs about five to six days after fertilization. At this stage, the embryo consists of a hollow ball of cells, with a group of cells known as the inner cell mass that has the potential to develop into all the various cell types needed for a complete organism. Because embryonic stem cells are pluripotent, they can differentiate into any cell type in the body, which is a fundamental characteristic that distinguishes them from other cell types.

Understanding this origin is crucial in the field of regenerative medicine and developmental biology, where embryonic stem cells represent a significant potential for therapies aimed at repairing or replacing damaged tissues and organs.