Cell Surface Specialization Essay
12. Provide a description of a cell surface specialization.
A cell surface specialization can be defined as an extension of the cell surface which performs a specific function for a larger organ or tissue. Examples of cell surface specializations include microvilli, cilia, stereocilia, and goblet cells. Microvilli can be described as tiny finger-like folds made of microfilaments in the cell membrane, and functions to increase surface area for absorption. Cilia are longer, more hair-like projections, and function to move substances along the cell surface. Microvilli are found in the small intestine and gallbladder, while cilia can be found in the respiratory tract and fallopian tube. Stereocilia are longer microvilli, and are only found in the male …show more content…
On the other hand, desmosomes form links between cells, and provide a connection between intermediate filaments of the cell cytoskeletons of adjacent cells.
14. Discuss the structure and function of the cell membrane.
The cell membrane is a phospholipid bilayer composed of lipids, cholesterol, sugars, and various proteins which function as channels, markers, and receptors, and functions as a dynamic barrier to isolate cells from their environment. As well, the cell membrane regulates the flow of substances into and out of the cell and mediates biochemical interactions between cells and the surrounding environment.
15. What is the role of the lysosome in autolysis?
Lysosomes can be defined as enzymes that aid in the removal and disposal of dead cells in tissues. Lysosomes contain specific enzymes which allow them to digest most types of biological or organic materials. This digestive process, known as autolysis, occurs quite rapidly in dead cells. Necrosis, the process of tissue degeneration is due to this lysosomal activity.
HIstotechniques
16. Discuss the purpose of tissue fixation. (.2
A cell surface specialization can be defined as an extension of the cell surface which performs a specific function for a larger organ or tissue. Examples of cell surface specializations include microvilli, cilia, stereocilia, and goblet cells. Microvilli can be described as tiny finger-like folds made of microfilaments in the cell membrane, and functions to increase surface area for absorption. Cilia are longer, more hair-like projections, and function to move substances along the cell surface. Microvilli are found in the small intestine and gallbladder, while cilia can be found in the respiratory tract and fallopian tube. Stereocilia are longer microvilli, and are only found in the male …show more content…
On the other hand, desmosomes form links between cells, and provide a connection between intermediate filaments of the cell cytoskeletons of adjacent cells.
14. Discuss the structure and function of the cell membrane.
The cell membrane is a phospholipid bilayer composed of lipids, cholesterol, sugars, and various proteins which function as channels, markers, and receptors, and functions as a dynamic barrier to isolate cells from their environment. As well, the cell membrane regulates the flow of substances into and out of the cell and mediates biochemical interactions between cells and the surrounding environment.
15. What is the role of the lysosome in autolysis?
Lysosomes can be defined as enzymes that aid in the removal and disposal of dead cells in tissues. Lysosomes contain specific enzymes which allow them to digest most types of biological or organic materials. This digestive process, known as autolysis, occurs quite rapidly in dead cells. Necrosis, the process of tissue degeneration is due to this lysosomal activity.
HIstotechniques
16. Discuss the purpose of tissue fixation. (.2