cell
definition of cell
1. the individual unit that makes up the tissues of the body. All living things are made up of one or more cells, which are the smallest units of living structure capable of independent existence.1
cell differentiation
definition of cell differentiation
1. the process during which young, immature (unspecialized) cells take on individual characteristics and reach their mature (specialized) form and function. For example, unspecialized cells differentiate to become nerve cells, muscle cells, blood cells, or other specialized tissue cells.1
cell division
definition of cell division
1. the method by which a single cell divides to create two cells. This is a continuous process that allows a population of cells to increase in number or remain the same in number.1
cell line
definition of cell line
1. cells of a single type that have been adapted to grow and divide in the laboratory and are used in research.1
cell membrane
definition of cell membrane
1. an envelope that contains the contents of a cell and controls what passes into and out of the cell.1