Muscle cells differ from nerve cells mainly because they a. express different genes. b. contain different genes. c. use different genetic codes. d. have unique ribosomes.

Key Concepts

Gene Expression

Gene expression refers to the process by which information from a gene is used to synthesize functional gene products, typically proteins. Different cell types, such as muscle and nerve cells, express different sets of genes, leading to their distinct functions and characteristics. This selective expression is crucial for the specialization of cells in multicellular organisms.

Genetic Code

The genetic code is the set of rules by which information encoded in genetic material is translated into proteins. While the genetic code is universal among organisms, the way genes are expressed can vary between cell types. Muscle and nerve cells utilize the same genetic code but express different genes, resulting in their unique properties.

Cell Differentiation

Cell differentiation is the process by which a less specialized cell becomes a more specialized cell type. This process is influenced by gene expression and environmental factors, leading to the formation of distinct cell types, such as muscle and nerve cells, each with unique structures and functions tailored to their roles in the body.