Specialised - GCSE Biology Definition

In GCSE Biology, the term 'specialised' refers to cells that have developed specific structures and features to carry out a particular function effectively. For example, red blood cells are specialised to carry oxygen—they have a disc shape and no nucleus, which increases space for oxygen. Nerve cells (neurones) are long and have branches to transmit signals quickly, and root hair cells in plants have a large surface area to absorb water and minerals. Specialisation allows multicellular organisms to function efficiently by having different types of cells perform specific roles.