Cytomorphosis

/ˌsaɪtoʊmɔːrˈfoʊsɪs/ noun

Definition

The gradual change or transformation in a cell's shape and structure over time or during development.

Etymology

From 'cyto-' (cell) + 'morphosis' (transformation), combining Greek 'morphe' (form) and the suffix '-osis' (process/condition). A specialized term from developmental biology.

Kelly Says

Cytomorphosis explains why a single fertilized egg cell transforms into hundreds of different cell types—each undergoing dramatic shape changes as it develops into neurons, muscle cells, or skin cells.

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