Question

What is re-differentiation? (a) Regaining the capacity to divide (b) Loosing the capacity to divide (c) Loosing the capacity to divide after regaining (d) All of these

Short answer

(a) Regaining the capacity to divide

Step-by-step solution

Power of Differentiation

The term 'differentiation' in biology often refers to the process by which a less specialized cell becomes a more specialized cell type. This process involves a cell changing its function to perform specific tasks better. Therefore, a differentiated cell might possess the capacity to perform specific tasks, but it does not possess the capacity to divide.

Interpreting the prefix 'Re-'

The prefix 're-' usually indicates again or back. Hence, the term 're-differentiation' implies that a cell that has already undergone differentiation is going through the process again. Therefore, the cell has regained the ability that it previously lost - which is division.

Matching interpretation with given options

Based on step 1 and step 2, it can be concluded that re-differentiation of the cell refers to it regaining the capacity to divide. So, the correct option is (a) regaining the capacity to divide.

Key concepts

Cell Differentiation

Cell differentiation is a vital biological process where a cell changes from one type to a more specialized kind. This specialization allows the cell to perform specific functions more effectively, which is fundamental in the development of multicellular organisms.

• During differentiation, a cell undergoes changes that allow it to take on a role unique to that cell type, such as becoming a muscle cell or a neuron.
• This process is essential for growth and development, enabling the formation of various tissues and organs.
• While differentiated cells have improved capabilities in their specific functions, they often lose the ability to divide.

Differentiation is particularly evident in a developing embryo, where cells start as stem cells and develop into the diverse range of cells needed for all the body's functions. It is also crucial in adults, for tissue repair and maintenance.

Cell Division

Cell division is a fundamental process by which a parent cell divides into two or more daughter cells. This process is essential for growth, repair, and reproduction.

• Two primary types of cell division include mitosis and meiosis.
• Mitosis results in two identical daughter cells, helping in growth and replacing worn-out cells.
• Meiosis, on the other hand, is involved in producing gametes, like sperm and eggs, reducing the chromosome number by half, and introducing genetic diversity.

Understanding cell division helps explain how organisms grow, develop, and maintain their bodies. It's a highly regulated process to ensure healthy cell proliferation and function.

Biological Processes

Biological processes are the series of actions or events conducted by living organisms to sustain life. These processes are complex and often interconnected, involving multiple steps and functions.

• They include fundamental life processes such as metabolism, respiration, photosynthesis, and homeostasis.
• Cell differentiation and cell division are specific examples of biological processes crucial for growth and development.
• Each biological process must be precisely regulated to maintain the organism's health and functionality.

These processes are vital not only for individual survival but also for the continuity of species, allowing adaptation and evolution over generations.