Question

What governs the rate of cell division?

Answer 1

The rate of cell division is governed by a combination of factors which include:

1. They grow large enough to have enough cytoplasm to distribute to their two daughter cells.
2. They have replicated their DNA, so they can give each daughter cell a duplicate set of genes.
3. They receive an adequate supply of nutrients.
4. They are stimulated by growth factors, chemical signals secreted by blood platelets, kidney cells, and other sources.
5. Neighboring cells die, opening up space in a tissue to be occupied by new cells.