Cell Differentiation and Specialisation

Flashcards covering key terms and definitions related to cell differentiation and specialisation based on the provided lecture notes.

Differentiation

The process by which a cell changes to become specialised for its job.

Specialised Cells

Cells that have developed different subcellular structures to turn into different types of cells, allowing them to carry out specific functions.

Stem Cells

Undifferentiated cells.

Animal Cell Differentiation

The process in animals where most cells lose the ability to differentiate at an early stage after becoming specialised, with differentiation in mature animals being mainly used for repairing and replacing cells such as skin or blood cells.

Plant Cell Differentiation

The process in plants where lots of plant cells don't ever lose the ability to differentiate.