ATP, Cells, and Cellular Processes: A Comprehensive Look
ATP: The Universal Energy Currency
ATP is a molecule found in all living things and is the main source of energy usable by cells to perform their activities.
The Cell Theory
- The cell is the structural unit of living beings; all living things are made of one or more cells.
- The cell is the functional unit of living things; it is the smallest unit capable of performing the vital functions of a living being.
- All cells come from another pre-existing cell by division.
Basic Structures of Cells
All cells have
Read MoreUnderstanding the Endocrine and Nervous Systems
The Endocrine System
The endocrine system functions as a coordinator, producing chemical messengers called hormones that control the body’s growth, development, and nutrient content. It is also important in the regulation of behavior. The endocrine system consists of a set of glands that secrete their products into the bloodstream.
Human Hormones
Hormones are natural substances, either lipid or protein-based, that travel through the bloodstream. They function as “chemical messengers” that regulate
Read MoreHuman Genetics and Heredity: From Reproduction to Genetic Disorders
Reproduction
Through breeding, new individuals arise that are similar to their progenitors. This ensures the survival of the species.
Asexual Reproduction
Involves a single progenitor and leads to exact copies of itself. The offspring contain the same precise genetic information as the progenitor.
Sexual Reproduction
Involves two progenitors, which contribute specialized cells called gametes that contain hereditary characters. These gametes originate from the two progenitors.
- Female gamete: Egg, oosphere
- Male
Endocrine and Musculoskeletal Systems: Functions and Disorders
Endocrine System
Endocrine system: Produces and responds to stimulation by producing hormones. These hormones are transported by the blood to all the cells in the body. Each hormone only affects its target cells, which have receptors for that specific hormone.
Hormones: Connect to a receptor and send information. This information causes chemical reactions inside the cell that produce a response.
Relationship of Nervous and Endocrine Systems
The hypothalamus, a gland located on top of the brain stem,
Read MoreCellular Biology and Biochemistry: Essential Concepts
Affinity
An attraction. What has the highest affinity for electrons? Electron carrier, then protein, then oxygen.
Capsule
Found on some bacteria that can live out in nature.
Autotrophs
Make their own food.
CO2 Sink
Plants are considered this because they use CO2 and turn it into sugar.
What Makes up Hydrogen?
1 proton and 1 electron.
Fluorescent Microscope
Specimen stained with auramine O.
Why Would You Use a Fluorescent Microscope?
To tag a particular part of the cytoskeleton.
Scanning Microscope
Shows an image
Read MoreCirculatory and Excretory Systems in Vertebrates
Circulatory Systems in Vertebrates
Simple Circulation
In fish, the circulatory system is simple. They have a heart with a curved shape that receives venous blood from the body. This heart consists of one atrium and a very muscular ventricle. Blood leaves the heart through arteries towards the afferent branchial arteries.
Double Circulation
In pulmonate vertebrates, the heart works as a double pump system with two circuits:
- Pulmonary Circuit: Blood leaves the heart through the pulmonary arteries and goes