Specialised cells

Explain that cells are specialised to perform specific functions within an organism.
Describe how the structure of different specialised cells is adapted to their function.
Give examples of specialised animal cells (e.g., nerve, red blood, sperm, ciliated) and specialised plant cells (e.g., leaf, root hair) and state their functions.

Cells are the fundamental units of life, and each type of cell is specifically designed to perform particular functions within an organism.
These specialised cells have unique features that enable them to carry out their specific tasks efficiently.

Most animal cells contain a nucleus, cell membrane, cytoplasm, and mitochondria. However, many cells have adapted their shape and structure to become specialised for particular jobs.
- Nerve cells: These long, thin cells transmit electrical impulses throughout the body, allowing for communication and coordination.
- Red blood cells: Lacking a nucleus, these cells are packed with hemoglobin, a pigment that binds to oxygen. Their disc-like shape increases their surface area for carrying oxygen.
- Sperm cells: These cells have a streamlined head, a long tail, and numerous mitochondria for energy production, enabling them to swim towards an egg cell.
- Ciliated cells: Found in the airways, these cells have hair-like structures called cilia that sweep mucus away from the lungs.

Sperm cell (left) nerve cell (centre), ciliated cell (top right) and red blood cell (bottom right)

Plant cells also exhibit specialisation, with different cell types adapted to perform specific functions within the plant.
- Leaf cells: Packed with chloroplasts, these cells are responsible for photosynthesis, the process of converting sunlight into energy.
- Root hair cells: These cells have a large surface area to absorb water and nutrients from the soil.

Leaf cell (left) and root hair cell (right)

Specialised cells: Cells that have developed unique structures and features to perform specific tasks within an organism.
Nerve cells: Animal cells adapted to transmit electrical impulses for communication in the body.
Red blood cells: Animal cells specialised for transporting oxygen, containing haemoglobin and lacking a nucleus.
Sperm cells: Male reproductive cells adapted for swimming towards an egg cell.
Ciliated cells: Cells that have small, hair-like projections called cilia used for sweeping substances along.
Root hair cells: Plant cells with a large surface area adaptation for absorbing water and minerals from the soil.
Leaf cells: Plant cells packed with chloroplasts for photosynthesis.

Research and present on other examples of specialised cells found in animals (e.g., muscle cells, white blood cells) or plants (e.g., xylem vessels, phloem sieve tubes).
Explore the process of cell differentiation – how do unspecialised cells develop into specialised cells with different structures and functions?