Final answer:
Cells in the body are different due to a process called differentiation, where cells express different genes from the same DNA. This results in cell specialization tailored to specific functions, akin to actors performing only their part of a script. Gene expression is key to this process, governing the cells' varied sizes, shapes, and roles.
Step-by-step explanation:
All of your body's cells contain the same DNA, but they all display different forms and functions due to a process known as differentiation. Differentiation is like actors reading only their parts from the same script; similarly, cells express only the portions of DNA relevant to their specific functions. This unique genetic expression leads to cells taking on diverse sizes, shapes, metabolic activities, and functions, becoming specialized in the process.
The human body consists of cells that are incredibly varied, reflecting their myriad roles. This variety comes from the fact that although each cell has the same DNA, not all genes encoded in the DNA are transcribed into mRNA or translated into proteins. Therefore, gene expression is selective and context-specific, resulting in the formation of different cell types with unique structures and functions designed for their specific tasks.
For example, cells that make up the eye will express genes related to vision and light detection, while liver cells will express genes involved in detoxification and metabolism, illustrating the specialization of cells based on gene expression profiles within the same DNA sequence.