GCSE Biology (OCR A)

Topic Summaries

Stem cells, microscopy, and microorganisms

Cell differentiation

  • Cell differentiation is the specialisation of cells by acquiring different sub-cellular structures. This is required so cells can perform their specific functions.
  • Cells differentiate to form different types of cells:
    • Most animal cells differentiate at an early stage. In mature animals, cell division is restricted to repairing and replacing damaged and old cells.
    • Many plant cells can differentiate throughout life.

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