Cytokinins: Definition, Biosynthesis, Effects, and Agricultural Uses

Unit 19: Cytokinins

Definitions

Cytokinin: A group of plant hormones that promote cell division and cell differentiation. They are derived from the purine base, adenine, and have an aromatic substituent on nitrogen in position 6 of the purine ring.

Anticytokinin: Compounds that reversibly inhibit the activity of cytokinins.

Kinetin: The first cytokinin discovered, derived from autoclavable herring sperm DNA.

Cytokinin Oxidase: An enzyme that regulates the endogenous levels of cytokinins in plants.

Bioassays

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Evolution Theories: Lamarck, Darwin, and the Modern Synthesis

Lamarck’s Theory of Evolution

Inheritance of Acquired Characteristics: This theory posits that modifications acquired by parents during their lifetime are passed on to their offspring.

Lamarck observed that fossils in deeper strata represented simpler life forms, while surface strata contained more complex organisms, suggesting a progression from simple to complex life.

He argued for the existence of a biological evolution process where primitive forms gave rise to better-organized life forms.

Lamarck’

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Chromosome Mutations: Number and Structure Variations

Lecture 15: Chapter 8

Chromosome Mutations: Variation in Number and Arrangement

Visualizing Chromosomes

Cytogenetics: The study of chromosomes within cells.

Chromosomes are designated based on the relative placement of their centromere. (See Figure 2.3 for visualization).

Human Karyotypes and idealized banding patterns group chromosomes: A(1-3), B(4-5), C(6-12), D(13-15), E(16-18), F(19-20), G(21-22).

Chromosome Numbers

Key terms include Aneuploidy, Euploidy, and Polyploidy. (Refer to Table 8.1 for examples)

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Neurons, Hormones, and Nervous System Function

Synapses and Neurotransmitters

Synapses are connections between neurons that transmit nerve impulses. A neurotransmitter is a chemical substance that produces the nerve impulse across the synapse.

Neuron Structure

Neurons possess filamentous extensions that facilitate connections with other neurons and organs throughout our body. We distinguish two main parts:

  • Soma: Contains the nucleus and the main part of the cytoplasm.
  • Extensions: There are two types:
    • Dendrites: Short and highly branched extensions
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Predator-Prey Dynamics, Symbiosis, and Ecosystem Interactions

Predator and Prey Relationships

Predators possess traits or skills that help them catch and kill their prey. Different types of predators have different skills and traits. For example, a cheetah uses its speed to catch prey. On the other hand, tigers have colors that let them blend with the environment so that prey cannot see them easily.

Prey generally have some way to protect themselves from being eaten. Different types of organisms protect themselves in different ways:

  1. Run Away: When a rabbit is
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Human Anatomy: Digestive, Connective Tissues, and More

The Human Body: Anatomy and Physiology

Digestive System

The digestive system consists of the gastrointestinal tract (alimentary canal) and accessory digestive organs. The stages of digestion include:

  • Ingestion: Food enters the mouth.
  • Mastication: Chewing and mixing with saliva.
  • Deglutition: Food moves to the pharynx and esophagus.
  • Peristalsis: Wave-like contractions move food.
  • Digestion: Mechanical and chemical breakdown.
  • Absorption: Nutrients pass through the GI tract.
  • Defecation: Waste elimination.

The

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