Introduction to Cells - Specialised Cells
What are Specialised Cells?
Specialised cells are those with distinctive structures and have unique functions in the body.
They work together in groups to form different tissue types, for example in nerves or muscles.
These tissues form organs, which support bodily functions. There are many types of specialised
cells in the body. Specialised cells examples are listed in these notes.
Nerve Cells
Nerve cells are required for the transmission of electrical impulses. Nerve cells send
impulses around the body of animals in order to aid sensation and movement. Nerve cells are
adapted to carrying impulses.
How are nerve cells specialised?
Long axon – they have a long axon to move the impulse from one part of the body to
another.
Dendrites – They also have many dendrites that contact other nerves. This happens at
special junctions called synapses, using neurotransmitters.
Mitochondria – making these neurotransmitters requires energy, which is provided by
the large number of mitochondria in synapses.
Insulation – nerves have a myelin coat (sheath) which insulates them.
Muscle Cells
Muscle cells are used for movement. Muscle cells contract and relax, allowing
different types of movement.
There is striated and smooth muscle. Striated (striped) muscle is the muscle you
usually think of. It it found in muscles like your biceps, allowing you to move. Smooth
muscle is found in some vessels and your digestive system. This moves food through
your gastrointestinal tract, through a process called peristalsis.
