Cell Specialization and Functions

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary function of villi in the small intestine?

To increase surface area for absorption (correct)

To produce digestive enzymes

To transport nutrients to the bloodstream

To create a barrier against pathogens

Gene expression is a process that determines how cells differentiate and function.

True

What allows villi to contract and expand?

Muscle strand

Each villus contains a lacteal that absorbs __________ and glycerol.

fatty acids Signup and view all the answers

Match the following cell types with their functions:

Villi = Increase absorption of nutrients Leukocytes = Fight infection Microvilli = Further increase absorption surface area Muscle Cells = Facilitate movement Signup and view all the answers

What structure projects from the villi to increase surface area?

Microvilli Signup and view all the answers

Cell specialization results from not all genes being expressed during differentiation.

True Signup and view all the answers

What are the cells that work to keep the human body free of infections?

Leukocytes Signup and view all the answers

What does cell differentiation refer to?

The structural modification of newly formed cells for specific functions Signup and view all the answers

Flagella are primarily used for locomotion in cells.

True Signup and view all the answers

What role does RNA play in cell function?

RNA transcribes the DNA code into proteins and contributes to cell differentiation. Signup and view all the answers

Cilia in the kidney bend __________ as urine passes, sending signals to the cells.

forcefully Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT an example of a specialized cell?

Fertilized egg Signup and view all the answers

All multicellular organisms begin as a multicellular structure.

False Signup and view all the answers

In sponges and coelenterates, flagellar motion is important for __________.

respiration and circulation Signup and view all the answers

Match the following structures with their respective adaptations or functions:

Nerve Cells = Receive and process signals Muscle Cells = Enable movement and contraction Cilia = Aid in signaling surrounding fluids Flagella = Facilitate locomotion Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements is true regarding cancer cells?

Cancer cells can proliferate quickly in the absence of stop commands. Signup and view all the answers

Meristem cells are responsible for the differentiation into vascular, dermal, and ground tissues in plants.

True Signup and view all the answers

What are the three classifications of meristems based on their location in a plant?

Apical, lateral, and intercalary Signup and view all the answers

Cancer can originate from mutations due to exposure to chemicals, radiation, and __________.

ultraviolet light Signup and view all the answers

Match the following cell types with their adaptations or functions:

Nerve Cells = Signal transmission Muscle Cells = Contraction and movement Ciliated Cells = Movement of substances Modified Cells = Specific functions beyond typical roles Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Cell Specialization and Differentiation

Cell differentiation occurs after cell division, modifying newly formed cells to effectively perform specific functions.
Special structures within cells aid in their specialized functions, such as antennas that receive and process sensory information.
Cilia in the kidneys detect urine flow, signaling the cells about urinary movement.

Flagella

Flagella are whip-like structures that serve as locomotion organelles in many organisms.
The motion of flagella generates water currents essential for respiration and circulation in sponges and coelenterates.
Most motile bacteria utilize flagella for movement.

Villi

Villi are small finger-like projections in the small intestine that enhance surface area for nutrient absorption.
Each villus contains muscle strands for contraction and lacteals for absorbing fatty acids and glycerol.
Microvilli extend from villi, further increasing absorption area and featuring protein pumps for nutrient transport.

Leukocytes

Leukocytes play a crucial role in defending the body against infections by targeting and eliminating microbes.
They differentiate into three primary tissue types: vascular, dermal, and ground tissue.

Cancer Cells

Cancer cells arise from abnormal properties leading to uncontrolled division and spreading within the body.
Factors contributing to cancer development include exposure to chemicals, radiation, and genetic mutations.
Cancer cells exhibit reduced sensitivity to growth inhibition signals and often evade programmed cell death (apoptosis).

Meristems in Plants

Meristems are regions in plants capable of growth and division, classified as apical, lateral, and intercalary.
Apical meristems are found at root and shoot tips, lateral meristems are located in vascular and cork cambia, and intercalary meristems occur between leaf attachments on stems.

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Description

Explore the fascinating processes of cell specialization and differentiation, including the roles of cilia, flagella, and villi. Discover how these structures contribute to efficient cell functions and overall organism health. Test your knowledge on key concepts and structures critical for cellular operations.