What characterizes cancer cells in terms of cell differentiation?

Cancer cells are characterized by anaplasia, which refers to a complete loss of differentiation in the cells. Normally, cells have specific functions and characteristics based on their type, which is a result of the process of differentiation. In cancer, cells often revert to a more primitive or undifferentiated state, leading to anaplasia. This lack of differentiation is a hallmark of many types of cancer, as these cells may not only lose their distinct features but also begin to behave abnormally, proliferating uncontrollably and often invading surrounding tissues.

The other options present concepts that do not accurately describe cancer cell behavior. Genetic stability implies that there are few mutations, which is not true for cancer cells that typically exhibit high mutation rates, contributing to their aggressive nature. Density-dependent inhibition refers to the process where normal cells stop growing when they become too crowded, but cancer cells often grow despite high density, showing a lack of this normal control. Finally, anchorage dependence is a condition where normal cells require attachment to a surface for growth, which cancer cells often bypass, allowing them to grow in inappropriate locations.