Cells and Tissues

A collection of vocabulary flashcards summarizing key concepts related to cells and tissues, their specialization, along with types of tissue and their functions.

Cell Specialization

The process by which cells differentiate to perform specific tasks based on cytoplasm content, environmental conditions, and neighboring cell influence.

Cytoplasm Content

The material within a cell, excluding the nucleus, which can determine specialization in daughter cells after mitosis.

Differentiation Factors

Three major influencers of cell differentiation: cytoplasm content, environmental conditions (e.g., temperature), and neighboring cell influence.

Epithelial Tissue

A type of tissue that lines the surfaces of the body, providing a barrier between internal organs and the external environment.

Types of Epithelial Tissue

Skin epithelial (thin, flat cells that form sheets act as a semi-protective layer between the outside and inside), Columnar Epithelial (column-like cells that line the small intestine, stomach, and glands. May secrete mucus, have finger like protection called clila and or absorb materials)

Stem Cells

Unspecialized cells capable of developing into various specialized cells, critical for growth and repair.

Embryonic stem cells

Unspecialized cells that can turn into an organisms body cells, making them valuable for research and medical treatment

Muscle Tissue

Tissue composed of cells that can contract, allowing the body to move; includes cardiac, smooth, and skeletal muscles.

Cardiac Muscle

A type of muscle tissue found in the heart, characterized by branched, striated cells with intercalated discs.

Smooth Muscle

Non-striated muscle tissue found in internal organs, capable of involuntarily contracting.

Skeletal Muscle

Striated muscle attached to the skeleton, responsible for voluntary movements.

Nervous Tissue

Tissue that makes up the nervous system, composed of neurons and supporting cells that process and transmit signals.

Connective Tissue

Tissues that support, bind, and protect other tissues and organs in the body; includes blood, adipose tissue, and bone.

Adipose Tissue (fat)

A type of connective tissue that stores fat and provides insulation and cushioning to the body.

Blood

A connective tissue made up of red and white blood cells, and platelets suspended in plasma, responsible for transporting nutrients and immune response.

Gene Differentiation

Variations in gene expression that can lead to different physical traits in organisms, influenced by environmental conditions.

Bone tissue

Made up of hardened calcium, needed for support and movement.

Environmental Conditions

Factors such as temperature and the presence of substances that can influence the differentiation and development of cells.

Abnormal Cell Development

The production of atypical cells often linked to environmental changes, diseases, or the presence of chemical contaminants.