Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

3. Energy & Cell Processes

Cytokinesis

Anatomy & Physiology

3. Energy & Cell Processes

Cytokinesis

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3:25 minutes

Problem 13

Textbook Question

An organism called a plasmodial slime mold is one large cytoplasmic mass with many nuclei. Explain how such a 'megacell' could form.

Verified step by step guidance

Understand that a plasmodial slime mold is a type of protist that exists as a large, multinucleate cell.

Recognize that this 'megacell' forms through a process called 'coenocytic growth,' where nuclear division occurs without cytokinesis (cell division).

Consider that during the life cycle of a plasmodial slime mold, the nuclei divide repeatedly without the cell itself dividing, leading to a single cell with many nuclei.

Acknowledge that this multinucleate condition allows the slime mold to efficiently distribute nutrients and signals throughout the large cell mass.

Realize that environmental conditions, such as availability of food and moisture, can influence the growth and development of the plasmodial slime mold into this 'megacell' form.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Cellular Fusion

Cellular fusion is the process by which two or more cells combine to form a single cell. In the case of plasmodial slime molds, individual amoeboid cells can merge together, resulting in a large, multinucleate structure. This phenomenon allows for the sharing of resources and genetic material, contributing to the organism's ability to adapt and thrive in various environments.

Multinucleation

Multinucleation refers to the presence of multiple nuclei within a single cell. In plasmodial slime molds, this occurs as a result of repeated cellular divisions without cytokinesis, the final step of cell division. This unique structure enables the organism to coordinate cellular activities across a large volume, enhancing its efficiency in nutrient absorption and response to environmental changes.

Plasmodium Formation

Plasmodium formation is a specific developmental stage in slime molds where individual cells aggregate to form a large, multicellular structure. This process is often triggered by environmental factors such as food availability or moisture. The resulting plasmodium is a dynamic, amoeboid mass that can move and grow, allowing the organism to explore its environment and optimize resource acquisition.