Final answer:
Cell differentiation is when unspecialized cells become specialized for specific functions, and morphogenesis is the formation of structures in an organism as these cells differentiate and interact. Both processes are crucial for the development of tissues and organs from germ layers during embryonic growth.
Step-by-step explanation:
Cell Differentiation and Morphogenesis
Cell differentiation is the process where unspecialized cells become specialized to perform distinct functions. An example of this is during the early stages of embryonic development when stem cells make the transformation into specific cell types. For instance, some cells from the ectoderm will begin to express genes that are specific to skin cells, leading them to differentiate into epidermal cells. The differentiation process is intricately regulated by various chemical signals which initiate a cascade of gene expression.
Morphogenesis refers to the formation of specific structures within an organism as cells proliferate and differentiate. It involves the organization of cells into functional structures and is characterized by complex cell movements and interactions. This is evident during organogenesis, where three germ layers formed in the process of gastrulation develop into different organs, such as the skin, nervous system, and internal organs like the heart and muscles. Precise and controlled cellular signaling cascades are critical for the proper development of these tissues and organs from the germ layers.