ScienceAugust 19, 2026

nonproliferative

non-PROH-luh-ruh-tiv

Definition

Referring to cells or tissues that do not actively grow or divide, such as neurons in the central nervous system.

Etymology

Derived from the prefix 'non-' (not) combined with 'proliferate,' which comes from the Latin 'proles' (offspring) and 'ferre' (to bear), meaning to produce offspring or multiply rapidly.

In the news

The article contrasts highly active tissues with nonproliferative cells to illustrate that, contrary to traditional views, cancer is not solely driven by high rates of cell division.

Using Mathematical Models, Caltech Researchers Suggest New Paradigm for Early Stages of Cancer Development

Read the full article ↗

Pasadena Now

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