What are the types of cells?

CELLS

The body is constructed from trillions of tiny living units, known as cells. There are more than 200 different types of cells and each has its own shape, size and specific job to do. Typically, cells of the same type work together in units called tissues. Each individual cell is surrounded by a thin membrane that regulates the movement of nutrients and other substances in and out of the cell. Cells multiply by continually dividing into two identical “offspring”. This division allows the body to grow and to replace cells that are damaged or worn out.

  • NERVE CELLS Found in the brain, spinal cord, and nerves, nerve cells, or neurons, carry and process high-speed electrical signals, called nerve impulses. These impulses coordinate body processes and enable us to feel, think and move.
  • WHITE BLOOD CELLS Circulating in blood and in a clear fluid known as lymph, white blood cells help defend the body against disease. The cells include macrophages and neutrophils, which eat bacteria and other germs, and also lymphocytes, which release germ-disabling antibodies.
  • EPITHELIAL CELLS Tightly packed together, these cells provide a barrier to stop harmful chemicals and germs reaching body tissues. They cover the body, forming the outer layer of skin, and line hollow organs such as the stomach, lungs, and bladder.
  • BONE CELLS Osteocytes are bone cells that help to keep the bone in good condition. At first, they lay down bone, but later become stranded within a bony space. They keep in touch through tiny threads and pick up supplies from nearby blood vessels.
  • LIVER CELLS Also known as hepatocytes, liver cells enable the liver to perform many hundreds of roles to control blood composition and keep the body stable. These include processing and storing nutrients (foods), and removing poisons.
  • FAT CELLS As their name suggests, fat cells specialize in storing fat. They group together to form adipose tissue, which serves as an energy store, cushions organs such as the kidneys, and insulates the body under the skin.

Picture Credit : Google

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *