Cell differentiationSpec 4.1.1.4
In short
Differentiation is the process by which a cell acquires different sub-cellular structures so that it can carry out a certain function, becoming a specialised cell. Most types of animal cell differentiate at an early stage, but many types of plant cell keep the ability to differentiate throughout life. In mature animals, cell division is mainly for repair and replacement.
As an organism develops, cells differentiate to form different types of cells. 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.
- Most types of animal cell differentiate at an early stage.
- Many types of plant cell retain the ability to differentiate throughout life.
- In mature animals, cell division is mainly restricted to repair and replacement.
Differentiation is important because it allows cells to become specialised, with the sub-cellular structures they need for a particular job. A multicellular organism made of specialised cells can carry out many different functions efficiently, as the specialised cells work together in tissues, organs and organ systems.
To explain the importance of differentiation, say that cells gain different sub-cellular structures so that they can carry out specific functions. Do not just say that cells 'change'.
Written and checked against the AQA GCSE Biology (8461) specification · Updated October 2026