Definitions Flashcards
specialized cells
a cell that can perform a specific function
hierarchy
an organizational structure, with more complex/important things at the top and simpler/less important things below it
tissue
a collection of similar cells that perform a particular function, but limited function
organ
a structure composed of different tissues working together to perform a complex body function
organ system
a system of one or more organs and structures that work together to perform a major vital body function such as digestion or reproduction
epithelial tissue
a thin sheet of tightly packed cells that covers body surfaces and lines internal organs and body cavities
(protection form dehydration)
connective tissue
various types of cells and fibers held together by a liquid, gel or solid, known as a matrix (a specialized tissue that provides support and protection for various parts of the body)
muscle tissue
a group of specialized tissues containing proteins that can contract and enable the body to move
nerve tissue
specialized tissue that conduct electrical signals from one part of the body to another
cellular differentiation
the process which by a cell becomes specialized to perform a specific function
stem cell
an undifferentiated ell that can divide to form specialized cell
sensory receptors
special cells or tissues that receive input from our external environment and sends signals along the peripheral nerves to our central nervous system
embryonic stem cell
can differentiate into any kind of cell
tissue stem cell
only able to differentiate into certain types of cells
