Why animals cells do not require a cell wall or central vacuous for their functions

1 answer

Animal cells do not require a cell wall or central vacuole for their functions for the following reasons:

1. Structural support: Animal cells have an internal cytoskeleton made up of microtubules and actin filaments, which provide structural support and maintain the cell shape. This structure allows animal cells to withstand external pressures without the need for a rigid cell wall.

2. Cell-cell communication: Animal cells communicate with each other through direct cell-to-cell contacts, such as gap junctions or through chemical signals like hormones. The absence of a cell wall allows animal cells to interact and communicate more efficiently.

3. Cellular flexibility: Animal cells need to move, change shape, and perform various functions such as contraction, secretion, and locomotion. The absence of a rigid cell wall allows animal cells to be more flexible and dynamic, enabling them to perform these functions effectively.

4. Nutrient absorption and waste elimination: Animal cells perform these functions through specialized structures like the plasma membrane and various organelles like mitochondria and lysosomes. They do not require a central vacuole like plant cells because they can directly take up nutrients and eliminate waste through these structures.

It is important to note that while animal cells lack a cell wall and central vacuole, they still have a plasma membrane, which serves as a selective barrier and regulator of the cell's internal environment.