Answer:
The statement "Tissues exhibit division of labor" refers to the concept that different types of cells within a tissue perform specific functions, contributing to the overall functioning and organization of the tissue. This division of labor allows tissues to carry out complex tasks efficiently. Here are some examples to explain this statement:
Epithelial Tissue: In the lining of the respiratory system, ciliated epithelial cells have hair-like structures called cilia that move in coordinated waves. Their function is to sweep mucus and trapped particles out of the airways, helping to protect the lungs. Adjacent to these ciliated cells, goblet cells secrete mucus that helps trap particles and keeps the airways moist.
Muscle Tissue: Muscle tissue is composed of different types of cells that work together for movement. Skeletal muscle tissue consists of long, multinucleated muscle fibers responsible for voluntary movements and locomotion. Cardiac muscle tissue forms the walls of the heart and enables involuntary contractions for pumping blood. Smooth muscle tissue lines the walls of organs like the intestines and performs involuntary contractions for digestion and other functions.
Nervous Tissue: Nervous tissue includes neurons and supporting cells. Neurons transmit electrical signals and allow for rapid communication between different parts of the body. Sensory neurons carry signals from sensory organs to the brain, motor neurons transmit signals from the brain to muscles or glands, and interneurons connect and integrate information within the nervous system.
In each of these examples, different cell types within the tissue have specialized structures and functions that contribute to the overall functioning of the tissue. This division of labor allows the tissue to perform specific tasks more efficiently and effectively than if all cells had identical functions.