Cell
Modifications
Prepared: Mary Joy P. Araneta, SST-I
Learning Competency:
✓ Describe some cell modifications that lead to
adaptation to carry out specialized functions (e.g.,
microvilli, root hair)
Learning Objectives
At the end of the lesson, the learners will be able to:
[Link] cell modification;
[Link] the three types of cell modification;
WHAT IS CELL
MODIFICATION?
TERM DEFINITION MAIN FOCUS EXAMPLE
Cell The process by which How a cell changes its A stem cell becoming a
Differentiation unspecialized cells (like stem identity to become a muscle cell or a nerve
cells) develop into specific specific type of cell. cell.
types of cells with distinct
structures and functions.
Cell The result of differentiation The role or job the cell Red blood cells
Specialization where cells are now fully performs. specialize in carrying
developed and perform a oxygen; nerve cells
particular function in the specialize in
body. transmitting signals.
Cell The structural or functional The adjustments or Root hair cells develop
Modification adaptations a specialized cell adaptations that long extensions to
undergoes to perform its enhance performance. absorb more water;
function more effectively. muscle cells have more
mitochondria for
energy.
Cell modification is actually a process
that occurs after cell division where the
newly formed cells are structurally
modified so that they can perform their
function efficiently and effectively.
There are three types of cell modification
such as Apical, Basal and Lateral
Modification.
Apical Modification,
found on the apical
surface of the cell
basement membrane
gap junctions, adhering
junctions, and tight
junctions free surface of
epithelial tissue such as
cilia, flagella, villi,
microvilli, pseudopods
and extra cellular
matrix.
Cilia (singular: cilium) are usually short, hair-like
structures that move in waves.
Flagella (singular: flagellum) are long whiplike
structures formed from microtubules.
Villi (singular: villus) are finger-like projections that
arise from the epithelial layer in some organs. They help
to increase surface area allowing for faster and more
efficient adsorption.
Microvilli (singular: microvillus) are smaller
projections that arise from the cell's surface that also
increase surface area allowing faster and more efficient
absorption.
Pseudopods temporary, irregular lobes formed by amoebas and some other
eukaryotic cells, a bulge outward to move the cell or engulf prey.
Extra Cellular Matrix (ECM) a compound secreted by the cell on its apical
surface. Large network of proteins and other molecules that surround,
support, and give structure to cells and other tissues in the body.
Cell wall is the extracellular structure in plant cells that distinguishes them
from animal cells.
Basal Modification found on the
basal surface of the cell basement
membrane gap junctions, adhering
junctions, tight junctions free
surface of epithelial tissue.
Hemidesmosomes, anchoring
junction on the basal surface
of the cell. A rivet-like links
between cytoskeleton and
links between cytoskeleton
and extracellular matrix
components such as the
basal lamina that underlie
epithelia. Primarily
composed of keratin,
integrins and cadherins.
Lateral Modification found on the lateral surface of the cell.
Tight junctions act as barriers that regulate the movement of water
and solutes between epithelial layers.
Adhering junction, anchoring junction on the lateral surface of the
cell. Very similar to the anchoring junction of the basal surface of the
cell. Fasten cells to one another basement membrane.
Desmosomes appear as pairs of dense, disc-shaped plaques on
opposing lateral membranes of adjacent cells.
NOTE: Adhering junctions join the actin filaments of neighboring cells together.
Desmosomes are even stronger connections that join the intermediate filaments of
neighboring cells.
Gap junctions also known as communicating junctions, closable channels that
connect the cytoplasm of adjoining cell. Presence of connection that allow direct
exchange of chemicals between the cytoplasm of two cells.
Type of Modification Location in the Cell Description / Function Examples
Apical Modification Found at the apical (top) surface Helps in absorption, Cilia (for movement of
of the cell — the part facing the secretion, or movement of mucus in respiratory tract),
lumen or outside environment. substances. microvilli (increase surface
area for absorption in the
intestine).
Basal Modification Found at the base (bottom) of Helps in anchoring the cell
the cell, where it attaches to the and transporting materials Hemidesmosomes (anchor
basement membrane. between the cell and cells to basement
underlying tissues. membrane), basal
infoldings (increase surface
area for active transport, as
in kidney tubules).
Lateral Modification Found at the sides of the cell, Provides support, Tight junctions (prevent
where it connects to neighboring communication, and tight leakage), desmosomes
cells. connections between (provide strength), gap
adjacent cells. junctions (allow
communication between
cells).
End!
