Cell growth occurs through a combination of cell division and cell enlargement. This process allows tissues and organs to increase in size.
Stages of Cell Growth
Cell growth typically unfolds in three distinct stages:
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Cell Hyperplasia: This stage involves an increase in the number of cells through cell division.
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Hyperplasia-Hypertrophy: This stage includes both an increase in the number of cells (hyperplasia) and an increase in the size of individual cells (hypertrophy).
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Hypertrophy: In this final stage, the primary mechanism of growth is the enlargement of existing cells. The number of cells remains relatively constant.
In essence, cells multiply and/or grow larger to reach their adult form during these stages. The relative contribution of each stage can vary depending on the specific tissue or organ.
