An abnormal and uncontrolled division of cells is termed as cancer.
| S.No. |
Cancer cell |
Normal cell |
| (i) |
Cancer cells divide in an uncontrolled manner. |
Normal cells divide in a controlled manner. |
| (ii) |
These cells do not show contact inhibition. |
These cells show contact inhibition. |
| (iii) |
Lifespan is indefinite. |
Lifespan is definite. |
In our body, the growth and differentiation of cells is highly controlled and regulated. The normal cells show a property called contact inhibition. The surrounding cell inhibits uncontrolled growth and division of a cell. The normal cells when lose this property, become cancerous, giving rise to masses of cells called tumours. Transformation of normal cells into cancerous cells is induced by some physical, chemical or biological agents (carcinogens).
