Basis of differentiation | Quiescent cells | Senescent cells |
Definition | cells that exist in the quiescent state, which is a reversible state of cell cycle arrest | cells that exist in the senescent state, which is an irreversible state of stable cell cycle arrest |
Response to stress | Are able to withstand cellular stressors and survive harsh conditions | Are less capable of coping with stress and exhibit susceptibility to DNA damage, oxidative stress, and other stressors |
Replicative potential | Quiescent cells have the ability to re-enter the cell cycle | Do not have the ability to re-enter the cell cycle |
Causes/mechanism | Quiescence occurs due to lack of nutrients and growth factors | Senescence occurs due to cellular aging or severe DNA damage |
Cellular phenotype | Exhibit reduced metabolic activity, small cell size, low RNA and protein synthesis. They are able to maintain their cellular phenotype and functions while awaiting external cues for activation | Exhibit enlarged and flattened morphology of cells, with altered chromatin structure, altered gene expression patterns, and increased senescence-associated Beta-galactosidase activity |