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What are larger cells called?

Published in Cell Biology 2 mins read

Larger cells are generally called giant cells or megacells.

Understanding Cell Size

The term for a larger cell can depend on its type and function. While "giant cell" and "megacell" are commonly used, specialized cells have their own names.

General Terms

  • Giant Cells: This term is often used to describe cells that are significantly larger than typical cells of their type.
  • Megacells: Similar to giant cells, this term also refers to cells with notably large size.

Specific Examples

According to Flexi, the specific name given to a larger cell can vary by its function. Here are some examples in the human body:

  • Neurons: Nerve cells, which can be quite large, are called neurons.
  • Muscle Cells: Muscle cells also can be large, and are referred to as muscle cells or myocytes.

Key Points

  • The general terms for larger cells are giant cells and megacells.
  • Specific cell types may have their own unique names.
  • The context of where the cell is located, and its function often determine the name.

Therefore, while the terms "giant cells" or "megacells" are generally used, other names such as neurons or muscle cells are given to larger cells depending on the specific cell type and its role within an organism.

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