Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
A somatic cell is any cell forming the body of an organism, excluding reproductive cells (gametes). These cells participate in the formation of tissues, organs, and the overall body structure.
A process of cell division that results in two genetically identical daughter cells from a single parent cell, essential for growth and repair in multicellular organisms.
Gamete: A reproductive cell (sperm in males or eggs in females) that carries half the genetic information of an individual and can unite with another gamete to form a new organism.
Tissue: Groups of similar cells that perform a specific function within an organism, such as muscle tissue or nervous tissue