Growth processes
Growth processes are biological changes that increase an organism’s or its parts’ size, cell number, or developmental complexity.
Cell division: The process by which one cell separates into two or more daughter cells. It increases cell number, expanding tissues and developing organisms.
Cell: The basic structural and functional unit of living organisms. Growth is realized through changes in cell number, size, or organization.
Human growth: The increase and maturation of the human body from conception through adulthood. It shows how growth varies across life stages and body systems.
Development: The organized changes in form and function that occur throughout an organism’s life. Development includes maturation and differentiation that need not increase size.
Cell growth: An increase in a cell’s mass, volume, or contents through biosynthesis and water uptake. It enlarges cells, contributing to growth without adding new cells.
Developmental biology: The study of how organisms grow and develop across their life cycles. It provides the broader framework linking growth to form and function.
Plant development: The formation and maturation of plant structures throughout a plant’s life cycle. It connects plant growth to organ formation, flowering, and maturation.
Senescence: The progressive decline in physiological function associated with aging. Senescence contrasts with growth by describing age-related functional decline.
Differentiation: The process by which cells acquire specialized structures and functions. It adds developmental complexity as tissues and organs form.
Growth factor: A signaling molecule that promotes cell proliferation, survival, or growth. Growth factors regulate cellular activities that contribute to tissue expansion.