Question

Example of form follows function in cell biology

Answer 1

The concept of 'form follows function' in cell biology indicates that the physical structure of cell components is directly correlated with their function, as showcased by the plentiful Golgi apparatus in secretory cells and the folded inner membranes of mitochondria.

Step-by-step explanation:

In the context of cell biology, the phrase 'form follows function' refers to the idea that the shape and structure of a cell's components are directly related to their respective functions. This concept is evident in various cellular structures that are adapted to perform specific tasks.

For instance, cells that are heavily involved in secretory processes, such as the cells of the salivary glands or immune system cells, typically contain an abundance of Golgi apparatus. The Golgi apparatus is responsible for modifying, sorting, and packaging proteins and lipids for secretion or for use within the cell. The large number of Golgi in these cells reflects their high secretory activity.

Another example can be seen in the shape of the mitochondria, which have an extensively folded inner membrane known as the cristae. These folds increase the surface area for oxidative phosphorylation, the process by which the cell generates ATP (energy), which is the primary function of the mitochondria.

Answer 2

Example: human's arm and bat's wing share the same evolutionary origin and exhibit similar internal anatomical structures, but they have different forms because these structures have different functions

Explanation:

The idea "Form Follows Function" indicates that the form/shape of a structure is directly associated with the function of that structure. The relation form-function is a consequence of the evolutionary process. Thus, in different species, analogous structures that share the same evolutionary origin can have different forms and/or shapes because they perform distinct functions, such as in the example above.