Cambridge (CIE) O Level Your notes
Biology
1.2 Specialised Cells, Tissues & Organs
Contents
Organisation of Cells
Magnification Formula
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, Organisation of Cells
Your notes
Specialised Cells
Specialised cells in animals
Specialised cells are those which have developed certain characteristics in order to
perform specific functions
These differences are controlled by genes in the nucleus
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
Specialised Cells in Animals Table
Cell Function Adaptation
Ciliated Movement of mucus in the Hair-like structures form on the surface of
cell trachea and bronchi of the the cell called cilia
chest cavity
These beat to move mucus and trapped
particles up and out of the trachea
Nerve Conduction of impules Long so that nerves can run to and from
cell different parts of the body to the central
nervous system
The cell has extensions and branches for
communication. The axon is insulated for
speed of transmission of the nerve impulse
Red Transport of oxygen Biconcave disc shape increases surface
blood area for more efficient diffusion of oxygen
cell
Contains haemoglobin for to carry oxygen
No nucleus to increase space for carrying
oxygen
Sperm Reproduction The head contains the genetic material for
cell fertilisation in a haploid nucleus (containing
half the normal number of chromosomes)
The acrosome in the head contains
digestive enzymes so the sperm cell can
penetrate the egg cell
The mid-piece has many mitochondria to
provide energy for tail movement
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Biology
1.2 Specialised Cells, Tissues & Organs
Contents
Organisation of Cells
Magnification Formula
© 2026 Save My Exams, Ltd. Get more and ace your exams at savemyexams.com 1
, Organisation of Cells
Your notes
Specialised Cells
Specialised cells in animals
Specialised cells are those which have developed certain characteristics in order to
perform specific functions
These differences are controlled by genes in the nucleus
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
Specialised Cells in Animals Table
Cell Function Adaptation
Ciliated Movement of mucus in the Hair-like structures form on the surface of
cell trachea and bronchi of the the cell called cilia
chest cavity
These beat to move mucus and trapped
particles up and out of the trachea
Nerve Conduction of impules Long so that nerves can run to and from
cell different parts of the body to the central
nervous system
The cell has extensions and branches for
communication. The axon is insulated for
speed of transmission of the nerve impulse
Red Transport of oxygen Biconcave disc shape increases surface
blood area for more efficient diffusion of oxygen
cell
Contains haemoglobin for to carry oxygen
No nucleus to increase space for carrying
oxygen
Sperm Reproduction The head contains the genetic material for
cell fertilisation in a haploid nucleus (containing
half the normal number of chromosomes)
The acrosome in the head contains
digestive enzymes so the sperm cell can
penetrate the egg cell
The mid-piece has many mitochondria to
provide energy for tail movement
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