Cell Differentiation and Specialisation

• Cell differentiation


  The process by which a cell changes to become specialised for its job
• Cells don't all look the same. They have different structures to suit their different functions
• Cell differentiation


  1. Cells develop different subcellular structures

  2. Cells transform into different types of cells
• Most differentiation occurs as an organism develops
• Undifferentiated cells


  Stem cells
• Sperm cells


  • Long tail
  • Streamlined head
  • Many mitochondria
  • Enzymes in head
• Nerve cells


  • Long
  • Branched connections
• Muscle cells


  • Long
  • Many mitochondria
• Root hair cells


  • Grow into long "hairs" that stick out into the soil
  • Absorb water and minerals
• Phloem and xylem cells

  • Form phloem and xylem tubes
  • Transport substances such as food and water
  • Phloem cells have very few subcellular structures
  • Xylem cells are hollow in the centre