INTRODUCTION
- About 200 different types of specialized cells carry out a multitude of functions that help each system contribute to the homeostasis of the entire body.
- At the same time, all cells share key structures and functions that support their intense activity.
- Atoms and molecules comprise the alphabet of the language of the human body.
- These are combined into about 200 different types of words called cells—living structural and functional units enclosed by a membrane.
- All cells arise from existing cells by the process of cell division, in which one cell divides into two identical cells.
- Different types of cells fulfill unique roles that support homeostasis and contribute to the many functional capabilities of the human organism.
- Cell biology is the study of cellular structure and function.
- As you study the various parts of a cell and their relationships to one another, you will learn that cell structure and function are intimately related.
- In this chapter, you will learn that cells carry out a dazzling array of chemical reactions to create and maintain life processes—in part, by isolating specific types of chemical reactions within specialized cellular structures.
