| differentiate | The process cells undergo as they mature into normal cells. Differentiated cells have distinctive characteristics, perform specific functions and are less likely to divide. See: dedifferentiate, undifferentiated. (16 Dec 1997) |
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| differentiated | The similarity between a normal cell and the cancer cell, defines what degree of change has occurred. Cancer cells that are well differentiated are close to the original cell and are usually less aggressive. Poorly differentiated cells have changed more and are more aggressive. (09 Oct 1997) |