2.6 Cell Specialization Flashcards
Tissue
Similar cell types grouped together to perform a common function
Organ
Multiple tissues working together to perform a specific function
Organ system
Multiple organs working together
Specialized cells
Each type has its own job and achieves optimal performance only in the environment in which it was designed to function
Cell differentiation
Generic cells become functionally specialized
Cellular potency
Ability of a cell to become another type of cell
Stem cells
High degree of potency and can turn into almost any cell in the organism
Make repairs by replacing cella’s that are old or malfunctioning
Totipotent
Ability to produce all the cell types in an organism plus extra embryonic or placental cells
Only embryonic cells within first couple divisions after fertilization are totipotent such as the zygote in humans
Pluripotent
Can give rise to any type of cell except the extra embryonic cells
Eg Embryonic stem cells
Multipotent
Can differentiate into a number of closely related cell types
Eg Adult stem cells
Unipotent
Can produce only one type of cell
Self renewal
Neurons
Carry messages throughout the body using electrical signaling
Take advantage of membrane potential to deliver electrical messages
Long and branched to optimize multiple connections with other neurons
Red blood cells
Move oxygen and carbon dioxide throughout the body
Center indentation may increase ability to exchange gases and optimize flow through blood vessels
Muscle cells
Long and thin cells that are capable of producing a powerful contractile force when in a tissue or organ
Hemopoietic stem cells
Can replace red blood cells which wear out after about 28 days and other types of blood cells
