B2.3 Cell Specialization Notes

These flashcards cover key concepts related to cell specialization, stem cell properties, types of stem cells, adaptations for increased efficiency, and the implications of cell size on metabolism.

Totipotent

Stem cells that can develop into any cell type, including embryonic and extraembryonic cells.

Pluripotent

Stem cells that can develop into almost any cell type found in the body, but not extraembryonic tissues.

Multipotent

Stem cells that can differentiate into a limited range of related cell types.

Unipotent

Stem cells that can produce only one specific type of specialized cell.

Morphogens

Gene-regulating chemicals that determine specialized cell development according to gene expression.

Stem cell niches

Locations in the body where stem cells are maintained and promoted to proliferate and differentiate.

Hematopoietic stem cells

Stem cells located in bone marrow that can differentiate into all types of blood cells.

Biconcave shape

The shape of red blood cells that increases their surface area for gas exchange.

Surface area-to-volume ratio

A measure that describes the efficiency of exchange of materials in relation to cell size.

Microvilli

Extensions of the cytoplasm in proximal convoluted tubule cells that increase absorption rates.

Erythrocytes

Another name for red blood cells, which are adapted to optimize gas exchange.

Metabolism

The rate of chemical processes in cells that can become less efficient as cell size increases.