cell specialization pt. 2

This set of flashcards covers various specialized cell types and their adaptations, making them suited for their specific functions within the human body.

Cell Differentiation

The process by which general cells develop into specific types to perform specialized functions.

Sex Cell

Gametes involved in sexual reproduction, including sperm and egg cells.

Muscle Cell

Specialized cells that contract to produce movement and force.

Fat Cell

Specialized cells that store energy as triglycerides and play a vital role in the body's endocrine system, also called Adipocytes.

Stem Cell

Undifferentiated cells capable of giving rise to various cell types.

Epithelial Cell

Cells that line and cover the internal and external surfaces of the body, such as the skin, organs, and glands.

Nervous Cell

Neurons that transmit signals throughout the body.

Red Blood Cells (Erythrocytes)

Cells responsible for transporting respiratory gases, mainly oxygen.

Kidney Nephron

The functional unit of the kidney that maintains water balance and filters waste.

Proximal Convoluted Tubule (PCT)

The longest section of the nephron, adapted for absorption with microvilli.

Type I Pneumocytes

Epithelial cells in alveoli involved in gas exchange, characterized by their thin, flat structure.

Type II Pneumocytes

Cuboidal epithelial cells in alveoli that secrete surfactant, preventing collapse.

Cardiac Muscle Cells

Cells unique to the heart that contract rhythmically.

Intercalated Discs

Specialized connections between cardiac muscle cells allowing synchronized contraction.

Skeletal Muscle

Muscle attached to bones that facilitates movement.

Gametes

Reproductive cells (sperm and egg) that carry half the genetic information.

Flagellum

A tail-like structure that provides motility to sperm cells.

Acrosome

A cap-like structure at the head of sperm containing enzymes to penetrate the egg.

Zona Pellucida

A protective jelly coat surrounding the egg that prevents multiple sperm from fertilizing.

Alveoli

Microscopic air sacs in the lungs where gas exchange occurs.

Sarcomeres

The functional units of a muscle fiber, composed of actin and myosin filaments, responsible for muscle contraction.

Sarcolemma

The thin plasma membrane surrounding a muscle cell that plays a crucial role in muscle contraction and action potential propagation.

Macrophages (dust cells)

Large white blood cells that engulf and digest cellular debris, pathogens, and foreign substances in the body.

Epithelium

A tissue composed of closely packed cells that lines surfaces and cavities throughout the body, serving as a barrier and facilitating absorption, secretion, and sensation.

Striated Muscle Fibers

Long, cylindrical cells with a striped appearance and are found in skeletal muscles.