Characteristics of Animal Cells and Plant Cells

Animal cells and plant cells are two very different types of cells but both play an important role in their respective organisms. While both cells share some similarities, there are also significant differences between the two. In this article, we will explore the question "what do animal cells have that plant cells do not?"

Lysosomes and Centrosomes

One major difference between animal cells and plant cells is that animal cells have lysosomes and centrosomes while plant cells do not. Lysosomes are organelles that are responsible for breaking down and recycling cellular waste. Centrosomes, on the other hand, are responsible for organizing the microtubules of the cell and help with cell division. These two organelles are unique to animal cells and not found in plant cells.

Flagella and Cilia

Another difference between animal cells and plant cells is the presence of flagella and cilia. Animal cells have flagella and/or cilia, which are hair-like structures that extend from the cell and help with movement. Plant cells do not have these structures, as they are immobile organisms. The presence of flagella and cilia is a unique feature of animal cells.

Gap Junctions

One more difference between animal cells and plant cells is the presence of gap junctions. Gap junctions are specialized protein channels that allow for the direct exchange of ions and molecules between adjacent cells. This allows for coordinated cell signaling and is a characteristic feature of animal cells. Plant cells do not have gap junctions but instead rely on plasmodesmata to exchange materials between adjacent cells.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are several key differences between animal cells and plant cells. Animal cells have lysosomes, centrosomes, flagella/cilia, and gap junctions, which are all absent in plant cells. These differences contribute to the unique functions of each type of cell and are important to understand when studying biology.