Processes of Cell Division, Differentiation, and Specialization

Processes of Cell Division, Differentiation, and Specialization

by Georgina Cornwall, PhD, Peter Ward, PhD

This course covers the material of content category 2C of the official MCAT exam content outline.

Cellular differentiation is defined as the process by which a cell acquires a different structure and functions relative to another cell. Cellular specialization continues this process by turning a general or common cell into a specific type of cell meant for a particular task (e.g., neurons for neural conduction, muscle cells for contraction and relaxation). In biological systems, cells, according to their genetic material, are able to undergo differentiation and specialization to organize themselves as tissues to carry out complex functions for the organism to which they belong. The initiation of these processes goes as far back as the first days after conception, determining the routes of differentiation and specialization that the following generations of stem cells will take.

In this course, the discussion will center around the basic concepts of cellular division, differentiation, and specialization. For optimal comprehension, the student will be required to have preliminary, college-grade knowledge of molecular and cellular biology and biochemistry.

Course Details

  • Videos 29
  • Duration 1:59 h
  • Quiz questions 66
  • Concept Pages 6

Content

Your Educators of course Processes of Cell Division, Differentiation, and Specialization

 Georgina Cornwall, PhD

Georgina Cornwall, PhD

Dr. Georgina Cornwall is a Biology Instructor and currently works as an Instructional Designer in the private sector, developing interactive online training materials.
She obtained her PhD in Environmental, Population, and Organismic Biology at the University of Colorado, USA, in 2000, and has since taught a broad array of biology courses at various US universities.
She is an active promoter of hybrid/online teaching formats and interactive courses, and has received several awards for her engaging and innovative course design; e.g., she was named Adjunct Faculty of the Year at Colorado Mountain College in Aspen twice.
Within Lecturio, Dr. Cornwall teaches courses on Biology & Genetics.

 Peter Ward, PhD

Peter Ward, PhD

Dr. Peter J. Ward is a Professor of Gross Anatomy at the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine in West Virginia, USA.
He obtained his PhD in Medical Anatomy Education from Purdue University in 2005. Currently, he is a respected teacher and researcher in the fields of anatomy, histology, embryology, neuroscience and approaches to learning and teaching.
Within Lecturio, Dr. Ward teaches courses on Embryology.


User reviews

(92)
4,3 of 5 stars
5 Stars
66
4 Stars
6
3 Stars
6
2 Stars
6
1  Star
8
 
Very good lecture
By Hanna K. on 10. December 2023 for Cell Cycle and Cell Division Control: Introduction

So clear and to the point - perfect - love this video

 
Nice videos
By Carlos Javier G. on 08. December 2023 for Cell Cycle and Cell Division

Very well explain and the quizes are a great help

 
Good class!
By Carmen C. on 02. March 2023 for Cell Cycle and Cell Division

The information is presented in a way that is easy to understand! Thank you ????

 
Good explanation
By Magdalena K. on 21. November 2022 for Telophase and Cytokinesis – Mitosis

An excellent and detailed description of each phase with emphases on correct language.