Specialised Cells (Edexcel GCSE Biology: Combined Science)
Revision Note
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AlistairExpertise
Biology & Environmental Systems and Societies
Specialised Cells
- Specialised cells are those which have developed certain characteristics (known as adaptations) in order to perform particular functions
- Cells specialise by undergoing differentiation: this is a process by which cells develop the structure and characteristics needed to be able to carry out their functions
- Examples of specialised cells in animals include:
- Sperm cells
- Egg cells
- Ciliated epithelial cells
Sperm cells
- Sperm cells are highly specialised for their role in reproduction i.e. to carry the DNA of the male to the egg cell (the ovum) of the female
Sperm cell
Sperm Cell Adaptations Table
Egg cells
- Egg cells are also highly specialised for their role in reproduction i.e. to be fertilised by a single sperm and to develop into an embryo
Egg cell
Egg Cell Adaptations Table
Ciliated epithelial cells
- Ciliated epithelial cells are highly specialised for their role in wafting bacteria and other particles (trapped by mucus) up to the throat (to be coughed out) or down to the stomach (to be digested)
Ciliated epithelial cells
Ciliated Epithelial Cell Adaptations Table
Exam Tip
Remember: Cilia and microvilli are not the same.
Cilia are hair-like projections that can move ('waft') mucus along, whereas microvilli are multiple indentations of the small intestinal epithelial cell membrane, designed to increase the surface area for absorption. Microvilli cannot move by themselves as cilia can.
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