Cell differentiation may be defined as the process in which the cell changes into another cell type from the one cell type. Differentiation is continuous in stem cells of the adults.
During the process of cell differentiation, the cells become restricted to their potential development. The cells determines its fate and start performing a specific function in the cell differentiation. Specific proteins and transcription factors are required for the process of cell differentiation.
Developmental potential refers to the ability of a cell to form other cell types. A cell may retain the ability to form other cell types or become specialized to perform specific functions. The process of specialization of cells into specific cell types generally limits their ability to form all cell types and is called differentiation.
For example, differentiation of RBCs include loss of organelles and making space for hemoglobin protein. Mature RBCs loose nucleus and can not divide at all.
