Cell Specialisation and Function Flashcards
What is cell specialisation?
The particular functions that a cell has.
What is cell differentiation?
The process by which stem cells become specialised. Cells will develop specific structural features to carry out a particular function.
What are stem cells?
Cells that are undifferentiated and are able to divide many times to become specialised. They can be embryonic or adult stem cells.
Where are adult stem cells found?
In the brain, and in the bone marrow.
What makes cells differentiate into different cells?
Different parts of each cells’ genetic information can be ‘switched on’ by proteins. Which genes are activated depends on where the cell is located in the developing organism. (eg. cells on outer layer become skin cells).
What happens once a cell becomes specialised?
It loses its capacity to develop into other types of cells.
Where are stem cells located in plants?
In the meristematic tissue in root and shoot tips.
How are the processes of a multicellular organism coordinated?
In animals, chemical secretions and nerve cells carry messages around the body. In plants, chemical and physical contact between cells acts as communication.
How is the structure of cells that are involved in substance exchange with external environment specialised for their function
Cells may be flattened (lung tissue) or elongated (palisade leaf cells) to increase SA:V for efficient exchange. Cell edges may extend into folds (eg. root hair cells, or microvilli on intestine).
How is the structure of red blood cells suited to its function?
The small and bioconcave shape of red blood cells increases SA:V allowing rapid diffusion of oxygen. Small size allows them to fit through capillaries to reach all parts of the body, and the absence of organelles allows more haemoglobin to be carried.
