lineage tracing

Lineage tracing is a scientific technique used to track the origins and developmental paths of cells within an organism. By marking specific cells with identifiable labels, researchers can observe how these cells divide, move, and differentiate over time, revealing their roles in growth, healing, or disease processes. This method helps scientists understand cellular relationships and development, providing insights into how complex tissues and organs form and function. Essentially, it's like following a family tree for cells to see how they progress and contribute to the body's biology.