Specialized cells are cells that have learnt and adapted in order to perform certain functions within the organism. Depending on their job within the organism, the cell may adjust their shape or size in order to be better suited for their role. Let’s take a look at some examples of specialized cells in order to gain an understanding.

Nerve Cells – Nerve cells, also called neurons, are cells that are fundamental to the nervous system in humans and animals. Their job is primarily to carry electrical signals around the body. These signals are known as impulses. There are a different types of nerve cells that all contribute to this system which we’ll learn more about in the human body section.

Melanocytes – These are specialized cells that produce the protective and skin darkening pigment known as melanin. Similarly to the neuron we just looked at, the melanocyte is branched or dendritic. This helps with transferring melanin granules to nearby cells. See our Study on melanin for further information.

Red blood cells – The job of red blood cells, is to carry oxygen around the body. Again we see an adaptation in the cell in order to match its primary task. Red blood cells do not have a nucleus, in order to create more space within the cell for oxygen. It also houses a protein called haemoglobin which helps with the transport by binding with oxygen molecules and carrying them.

Reproduction Cells

Egg Cell – This is actually the biggest cell you’ll find in the human body. It is a cell that, when fertilized, develops into a new organism and thus carries genetic information as well as nutrients to help feed to new embryo.

Sperm Cell – Also carrying genetic information, but a much smaller cell than the Egg Cell. The sperm cells job is to make it to the egg cell and fertilize it in order to help grow a new organism. The sperm has a tail, to help with swimming towards to egg.