What is tot potency?

Totipotency refers to the ability of a single cell to develop into a complete organism, including all cell types necessary for development. This characteristic is most commonly associated with the zygote and the first few divisions of embryonic cells, which can give rise to both the embryo and the supporting structures like the placenta. In essence, totipotent cells have the potential to differentiate into any cell type in the body, making them crucial in early development.