- Cell proliferation refers to the process of cell growth and division that leads to the generation of two daughter cells. This process results in an exponential increase in cell number and tissue size.
- Both cell growth and cell division are interconnected processes (indistinguishable from each other) and are regulated by many common signaling pathways.
- Most dividing cells undergo highly regulated and coordinated cell cycle phases after achieving a characteristic size.
- Without proper cell growth, the cell cycle is halted at the G1 phase.
- There are some exceptions also. Cell division can be observed in the absence of cell growth (e.g., division in a zygote) and cells can grow without undergoing cell division (e.g., neurons).
- The mTOR pathway is the major regulator of cell growth.
- Growth factors and mitogens are required for cell proliferation. These factors activate PI3K and MAPK signaling pathways that drive the mammalian cells through the G1 phase of the cell cycle.
- The cell cycle progression becomes independent of growth factors and mitogens after passing the restriction point.
- Cell proliferation is essential for multicellular organism growth and homeostasis.
- Dysregulation of control on cell proliferation can contribute to uncontrolled proliferation and cancer.
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