What is the defining characteristic of well differentiated cells?

Well-differentiated cells are characterized by their close resemblance to normal cells in terms of structure and function. This level of differentiation indicates that the cells retain many of the characteristics of their origin, which includes similar morphology, specific biochemical functions, and the ability to perform specialized tasks. In cancerous tissues, well-differentiated cells typically indicate a less aggressive tumor behavior compared to poorly differentiated cells, which may exhibit abnormal appearances and functions.

The other options highlight traits that are either more characteristic of poorly differentiated cells or not related to differentiation at all. For instance, cells that appear different from normal cells (the first option) signify a lack of differentiation. Additionally, the presence of hemorrhagic and necrotic tissue (the last option) is associated with tumor growth and progression rather than differentiation status, while circumscribed and pushing boundaries may refer to the physical growth pattern of a tumor, not the cellular differentiation itself.