What are the differences between cell proliferation and cell differentiation?

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Accepted Answer

Cell proliferation and cell differentiation are processes that occur during the development of cells in multicellular organisms. There are significant differences between these two processes.

Basis of differentiation
Cell proliferation
Cell differentiation

Definition
Refers to the process that is responsible for increasing the number of cells
Refers to the process that is responsible for altering the morphology and function of regular cells and transforming them into more specialized types of cells capable of performing specific functions

Significance
The number of cells increases due to this process
Non-specialized cells become functionally specialized due to this process

Causative factor - Mechanism
Is the result of cell growth and cell division
Is a result of the regulation of gene expression

Where the process first occurs
Occurs first in stem cells
Cells that proliferate in stem cells later differentiate into special functional cell types

Function
Helps in replenishing number of cells as well as replacing damaged or dead cells
Helps in replacing damaged and dead cells in tissues

Basis of differentiation	Cell proliferation	Cell differentiation
Definition	Refers to the process that is responsible for increasing the number of cells	Refers to the process that is responsible for altering the morphology and function of regular cells and transforming them into more specialized types of cells capable of performing specific functions
Significance	The number of cells increases due to this process	Non-specialized cells become functionally specialized due to this process
Causative factor - Mechanism	Is the result of cell growth and cell division	Is a result of the regulation of gene expression
Where the process first occurs	Occurs first in stem cells	Cells that proliferate in stem cells later differentiate into special functional cell types
Function	Helps in replenishing number of cells as well as replacing damaged or dead cells	Helps in replacing damaged and dead cells in tissues

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