Specialization of cells and organelles

In summary, specialization in cells and organelles allows for more efficient and specialized functions within an organism. This is achieved through a process called differentiation, which involves the activation and inactivation of specific genes. Examples of specialized cells and organelles include red blood cells, muscle cells, chloroplasts, and mitochondria. These specialized structures and functions work together through cell signaling, allowing for coordinated and efficient functioning within an organism. Specialization also contributes to the complexity of living organisms by enabling them to adapt and survive in their environments, and by contributing to the diversity of life on Earth.
  • #1
MathewsMD
433
7
Hi,

I just had 2 questions.

1. In multicellular organisms, are there any undifferentiated cells besides stem cells? Do they play any significant role?

2. Why is it that smooth ER does not have ribosomes attach to it but rough ER can have ribosomes come and attach? Is there a structural difference b/w the two types of ER? All I've been getting is that rough ER has ribosomes (which attach from cytosol) but why can't this happen on smooth ER? Likewise, why does the rough ER not create lipids like the smooth ER?

Any help would be much appreciated!
 
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  • #2
Any thoughts?
 

1. What is the purpose of specialization in cells and organelles?

The purpose of specialization in cells and organelles is to allow for more efficient and specialized functions within an organism. By differentiating and specializing, cells and organelles can perform specific tasks that contribute to the overall functioning of the organism.

2. How do cells and organelles become specialized?

Cells and organelles become specialized through a process called differentiation, which involves the activation and inactivation of specific genes. This leads to the development of specialized structures and functions within a cell or organelle.

3. What are some examples of specialized cells and organelles?

Examples of specialized cells include red blood cells, which are specialized for oxygen transport, and muscle cells, which are specialized for contraction. Some examples of specialized organelles include chloroplasts, which are specialized for photosynthesis in plant cells, and mitochondria, which are specialized for energy production.

4. How do specialized cells and organelles work together?

Specialized cells and organelles work together through a process called cell signaling. This involves communication between different cells and organelles, which allows for coordinated and efficient functioning within an organism.

5. How does specialization contribute to the complexity of living organisms?

Specialization contributes to the complexity of living organisms by allowing for a diverse range of functions and processes to occur within a single organism. This enables organisms to adapt and survive in their environments, and also contributes to the diversity of life on Earth.

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