Unveiling Paleontology: Fossils, Evolution, and Hominization
Paleontology: Unveiling the Past
Paleontology studies the remains of living beings that lived in the past. Since antiquity, fossil remains of animals have been discovered. To explain their existence, the diluvian theory was used, according to which such remains were those of animals now extinct as a result of “Noah’s Flood.” This scenario could not explain the progressive ratio found from fossils dating in older times to more recent times. Thus, the diluvian theory was replaced by the theory of catastrophes.
Read MoreGenetic Engineering: Techniques, Vectors, and PCR Explained
Genetic Engineering: An Overview
Genetic Engineering is a technique that consists of introducing genes into the genome of an individual who lacks them. It is performed by restriction enzymes that are able to “cut” DNA at specific points. Recombinant DNA is formed by inserting a DNA segment into a foreign DNA receiver. For example, the introduction of viral DNA into a cell’s DNA.
DNA Recombination Techniques
This includes a set of biotechnology techniques. DNA recombination allows us to obtain unlimited
Read MoreMendelian Genetics: Laws, Inheritance, and Applications
Gregor Mendel and the Foundations of Genetics
Gregor Mendel (1822-1884)‘s experiments on plant breeding were central to the development of genetics. He meticulously planned his experiments by choosing plants with contrasting characters.
Materials Used in Mendel’s Experiments
Materials used: Green and yellow seeds, seeds with smooth and rough surfaces. These materials provided the contrasting characters necessary for his research.
Mendel recognized that inheritance follows specific laws and that the
Read MoreImmunology: Key Concepts, Antigens, and Immune Responses
Q1: What is Immunology?
Immunology is the branch of biomedical science that studies the immune system, its components, functions, and how it protects the body from pathogens like bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It also deals with immune disorders, allergies, and immunotherapy.
Q2: Why is Innate Immunity the First Line of Defense?
Innate immunity provides immediate, non-specific protection against pathogens. It includes:
- Physical barriers: Skin, mucous membranes prevent pathogen entry.
- Chemical
Cardiovascular System: Anatomy, Function, and Blood Flow
General Function of the Cardiovascular System
Components: Heart + blood vessels
Functions:
Transport blood throughout the body.
Deliver O2 and nutrients.
Remove CO2 and waste products.
Ensure adequate perfusion: delivery of blood per time per gram of tissue (mL/min/g).
Adequate perfusion is essential for cellular health, requiring a constantly pumping heart and open, healthy vessels.
Components of the Cardiovascular System
Blood Vessels:
Arteries: Carry blood away from the heart; most carry oxygenated blood.
Human Tissue Anatomy: A Comprehensive Review
Understanding Human Body Tissues
Tissue: A group of cells performing the same function, all originating from the same group of stem cells.
Types of Tissues:
- Epithelial: Covers external and internal surfaces of the body.
- Connective: Supports and connects organs and systems.
- Muscle: Collaborates in the movement of our body and internal organs.
- Nervous: Transmits nerve impulses and coordinates the functioning of all other body systems.
Epithelial Tissue
- Epithelia cover the skin and the internal lining of many