Specialized Cells - Movement and Transport
This page details the structure and function of sperm cells, muscle cells, and red blood cells. Each cell type demonstrates specific adaptations that enable it to perform its specialized function effectively.
Definition: Specialized cells are cells that have developed specific features to perform particular functions in the body.
The sperm cell is designed for fertilization, featuring a tail for swimming and numerous mitochondria for energy production.
Highlight: The mitochondria role in muscle and sperm cell energy release is crucial for powering movement and fertilization.
Muscle cells contain protein fibers for contraction and abundant mitochondria for energy production.
Example: Just as a rubber band can stretch and contract, muscle cells use their protein fibers to change length during movement.
Red blood cells are uniquely adapted for oxygen transport, with their bi-concave shape and hemoglobin content.
Vocabulary: Hemoglobin is a red protein responsible for carrying oxygen in the blood.