What is the meaning of the suffix "-blast"?

The suffix "-blast" signifies an immature or precursor cell, particularly in the context of tissue development and cellular differentiation. In medical terminology, this suffix is often associated with various types of cells that are in a formative stage, such as osteoblasts (bone-forming cells) or fibroblasts (cells that produce connective tissue). Understanding this allows for a clearer insight into the processes of growth and healing, as these immature cells play essential roles in the development and repair of tissues.

The other choices, while relevant in different contexts, do not accurately capture the essence of the suffix "-blast." For example, "pertaining to" usually relates to "-ic" or "-al," indicating a descriptive relationship, while "separation of" would correspond more to terms like "-lysis." Lastly, "protrusion" does not align with any common suffix or prefix used in medical terminology to denote immature cells or developmental stages.