Question

How are red blood cells and neurons different? Responses Neurons need oxygen, but red blood cells do not. Neurons need oxygen, but red blood cells do not. - no response given Neurons are all the same size, but red blood cells are different sizes. Neurons are all the same size, but red blood cells are different sizes. - no response given Neurons lack organelles, but red blood cells have organelles. Neurons lack organelles, but red blood cells have organelles. - no response given Neurons contain DNA, but red blood cells do not.

Answer 1

The correct distinction between red blood cells and neurons is that:

**Neurons contain DNA, but red blood cells do not.**

Here's a brief overview of the differences:

1. **Oxygen Requirement**: Both neurons and red blood cells need oxygen to function properly. While neurons use oxygen for energy production (aerobic metabolism), red blood cells do not consume oxygen; instead, they transport it.

2. **Size**: Neurons vary in size and shape depending on their type and function, while red blood cells are generally uniform in size and shape (biconcave discs).

3. **Organelles**: Neurons contain organelles (such as a nucleus, mitochondria, etc.) that are necessary for their functioning and maintenance. In contrast, mature red blood cells lack a nucleus and most organelles, allowing more space for hemoglobin to carry oxygen.

4. **DNA**: Neurons have a nucleus that contains DNA, which allows them to perform functions such as protein synthesis and gene regulation. Mature red blood cells do not have a nucleus or DNA, which is a key factor that limits their lifespan and ability to replicate.

In summary, the key difference regarding DNA is accurate: neurons contain DNA, while mature red blood cells do not.