Cells and Cell Specialization

Cell Specialization A cell’s structure is directly related to its function size, shape, special structures, abundance of specific organelles, Stem Cell = A cell that is not yet specialized (undifferentiated) Stem cells can differentiate into any other specialized cell Can divide to produce more stem cells. They are found in multicellular organisms.

RED BLOOD CELLS Function: Carry oxygen from lungs to cells of the body. Adaptation: contain a red substance called hemoglobin, which picks up oxygen. Mature red blood cells have no nucleus

White Blood Cells White blood cells defend the body against germs. One type of WBC can engulf germs Called Phagocytes One type of WBC can produce substances called antibodies

Muscle Cells- Smooth Muscle Smooth muscle cells can contract (shorten), this contraction cause things to move. Found in internal organs like stomach , food canals

Muscle Cell- Skeletal Muscle Skeletal muscle cells or striated or voluntary muscles Can shorten to move bones. How your body moves. Long, cylinder, shaped fibres that have striped appearance.

Muscle Cell- Cardiac Muscle Cardiac muscle cells are found in the heart. The contraction and relaxation of cardiac muscles cells cause the heart to pump blood throughout the body Stripe appearance and from short branching threads or fibres.

Nerve Cell Carry messages called impulses (electrical) from one part of the body to another. Adaptations: dendrites, axon, cell body

Bone Cells Bone cells make bone to support the body Make bone marrow which makes red and white blood cells

Epithelial Cells Cover and protect surfaces inside and outside the body. The cheek cells inside the mouth and skin cells are examples of epithelial cells Adaptation: Thin for absorption

Gamete (sex cell) : Sperm

Gamete (sex cell): Egg

Palisade Cells Found in the leaves of plants contains lots of chloroplast for photosynthesis

Root Hair Cells Found on the roots of plants in little hairs. Long and thin to absorb water from the soil

Questions Which Cell is responsible for: Absorbing water for plants? Transporting oxygen in animals Making food for plants Transporting messages around the body Allowing movement for the body Protect the body from infection

Body Organization CELLS--> TISSUES--> ORGANS--> SYSTEMS--> ORGANISM