contact inhibition

noun

: cessation of cellular movement, growth, and division upon contact with other cells

Examples of contact inhibition in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Researchers observed in a 2009 study that their cells cease dividing when a certain density threshold is crossed — a mechanism called early contact inhibition that prevents tumors from ever forming. Jennifer Walter, Discover Magazine, 11 Feb. 2020

Word History

First Known Use

1965, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of contact inhibition was in 1965

Dictionary Entries Near contact inhibition

Cite this Entry

“Contact inhibition.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/contact%20inhibition. Accessed 23 Dec. 2024.

Medical Definition

contact inhibition

noun
: cessation of cellular undulating movements upon contact with other cells with accompanying cessation of cell growth and division
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