How do nerve and muscle cells differ from other body cells?

Nerve and muscle cells differ from other body cells in several key aspects:

1. Excitability: Nerve and muscle cells are excitable, meaning they can generate electrical signals called action potentials. These action potentials allow them to transmit information rapidly over long distances. Other body cells, such as skin or liver cells, do not have this property.

2. Polarity: Nerve and muscle cells are polarized, meaning they have a distinct electrical charge distribution across their membranes. The inside of these cells is negative relative to the outside, and this difference in electrical potential is essential for the generation of action potentials.

3. Communication: Nerve and muscle cells communicate with each other through chemical signals called neurotransmitters. Neurotransmitters are released by nerve cells and bind to receptors on muscle cells, causing them to contract.

4. Contractility: Muscle cells are specialized for contraction, which is the process by which they shorten and generate force. This property allows muscles to move the body and perform various functions, such as walking, talking, and breathing.

5. Adaptation: Nerve and muscle cells can adapt to changes in their environment. For example, if a muscle is exercised regularly, it will become stronger and more resistant to fatigue. This is due to the fact that nerve and muscle cells can increase the production of proteins and other molecules that are necessary for their function.

In addition to these differences, nerve and muscle cells also have some similarities to other body cells. For example, they all contain a nucleus, cytoplasm, and plasma membrane. They also all carry out the basic processes of cell life, such as metabolism and reproduction.