Dedifferentiation
The phenomenon where living differentiated cells, having lost the capacity to divide, regain the ability to divide under certain conditions, forming new meristematic tissues.
What is Dedifferentiation?
The process by which a cell loses its specialized features and reverts to a more primitive, meristematic state, regaining the ability to divide.
Key points
- Define dedifferentiation.
- Explain the process of dedifferentiation in plants.
- Identify the stimuli that trigger dedifferentiation.
- Recognize the significance of dedifferentiation in plant biology.
Common exam trap
Confusing dedifferentiation with redifferentiation.
Definitions
- Term
Dedifferentiation
- Meaning
The process by which a cell loses its specialized features and reverts to a more primitive, meristematic state, regaining the ability to divide.
- Term
Meristematic Tissue
- Meaning
Plant tissue composed of actively dividing cells, responsible for growth.
- Term
Callus
- Meaning
An undifferentiated mass of plant cells formed during tissue culture or in response to injury.
Learning objectives
Define dedifferentiation.
Explain the process of dedifferentiation in plants.
Identify the stimuli that trigger dedifferentiation.
Recognize the significance of dedifferentiation in plant biology.
Differentiate between dedifferentiation and redifferentiation.
Prerequisites
Cell Differentiation
Meristematic Tissues
Plant Hormones
Cell Cycle
Common mistakes
Confusing dedifferentiation with redifferentiation.
Assuming all differentiated cells can dedifferentiate.
Not understanding the role of external stimuli.
Overlooking its importance in plant tissue culture.
Keywords
Dedifferentiation
Plant Growth
Meristematic Cells
Cell Division
Regeneration
Tissue Culture
Callus
Plant Hormones
Practice preview
Which of the following statements correctly distinguishes dedifferentiation from differentiation?…
medium
The process by which living differentiated cells, having lost the capacity to divide, regain the ability to divide under certain conditions is called:…
easy
What is the primary change observed in cells undergoing dedifferentiation?…
easy