Animal cells and plant cells share many common structures, but there are several key differences. Here are the structures typically present in an animal cell that are generally not found in plant cells:
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Centrioles: These are cylindrical structures that play an important role in cell division (mitosis) and are involved in forming the spindle fibers that separate chromosomes. Plant cells usually do not have centrioles; instead, they rely on other mechanisms for cell division.
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Lysosomes: While plant cells may contain similar structures called lytic vacuoles, lysosomes are more common and prominent in animal cells. They contain digestive enzymes that break down waste materials and cellular debris.
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Flagella and Cilia: Some animal cells, such as sperm cells, possess flagella for motility, while cilia may be found on certain types of epithelial cells. Plant cells typically do not have these structures, although some motile plant gametes may have flagella.
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Smaller Vacuoles: While plant cells have a large central vacuole that stores nutrients and waste products, animal cells may have smaller vacuoles that serve various functions, such as storage and transport but are not as prominent as the central vacuole in plant cells.
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Intermediate Filaments: While both plant and animal cells have cytoskeletal elements, some types of intermediate filaments that provide structural support and integrity are more prevalent in animal cells compared to plant cells.
These structures support specific functions and adaptations relevant to the physiology of animal cells compared to plant cells.