The idea that all cells arise from preexisting cells is one of the fundamental principles of modern biology. Through the cell cycle (mitosis and cytokinesis), a single cell can give rise to two genetically identical daughter cells. But although all the cells that make up the body of an individual plant are genetically identical, they are not necessarily structurally and functionally identical. Different cells are modified for different purposes through the process of differentiation. As you will see, the plant body contains a variety of cell types, each specialized for a particular function.

This week, you will examine the steps involved in the process of cell division in plants and begin to look at the different cell types and tissue types that make up the mature plant body. Click on the links below to review a particular part of the lab.

Topics covered in this week's lab:

• The Cell Cycle and Mitosis
• Interphase
• Prophase
• Metaphase
• Anaphase
• Telophase
• Cytokinesis

 
• Simple Tissues of the Plant Body
• Parenchyma
• Collenchyma
• Sclerenchyma

This page last updated: 13 Sep 1999