How do genes determine whether a call is a stem cell or a specialized cell?

Genes play a crucial role in determining whether a cell is a stem cell or a specialized cell through the regulation of gene expression. Stem cells possess specific sets of genes that maintain their pluripotency and self-renewal capabilities, while specialized cells express different genes that guide them to adopt specific functions and characteristics. The activation or repression of these gene networks, influenced by various internal and external signals, ultimately dictates the cell's fate. This process of differentiation is essential for the development and maintenance of tissues in multicellular organisms.