Correct option is C
Explanation-
Option C - Competence
This refers to the ability of a cell or tissue to respond to a specific inductive signal. Even if an inducing signal is present, only competent cells can respond to it. Competence is signal-specific and time-limited — cells must be in the right state at the right time.
For example - In development, ectodermal cells must be competent to respond to signals from the underlying mesoderm to become neural tissue.
Incorrect Options -
Option A - Potency
Refers to a cell’s potential to differentiate into other cell types. Totipotent, pluripotent, multipotent describe levels of potency. Potency is about what a cell can become, not whether it can respond to a signal.
Option B - Equivalence
Refers to cells having the same potential, often in early embryos. E.g., several blastomeres may be equivalent in potential but adopt different fates based on signals. It does not describe signal responsiveness directly.
Option D - Specification
It means a cell has been pre-determined to a specific fate, but this fate can still change if the environment changes. Specification is about commitment, not signal responsiveness.
So, the correct answer is option C - Competence
