Cell Differentiation

• As an organism develops, cells differentiate to form different types of cells
• Most types of animal cells differentiate at an early stage
• Many plant cells retain the ability to differentiate throughout their life.
• In mature animals, cell division is mainly restricted to repair and replacement. As a cell differentiates, it acquires different sub-cellular structures to enable it to carry out a certain function. It has become a specialised cell.
• Cell differentiation is important because it allows cells to specialise and perform different functions in an organism. This allows for the formation of tissues and organs, and is necessary for the proper functioning of the body