A Systems Level Approach to Biology
Biology is the system of all systems. Everything is interconnected.
To fully understand biology (or at least try to), you need to use a systems-level approach.
Here are some notes I wrote to myself:
1. Amino Acids:
- Definition: Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins.
- Structure: Amino acids consist of an amino group, a carboxyl group, and a variable side chain.
- Types: There are 20 standard amino acids, each with a unique side chain.
- Roles: Amino acids are crucial for protein synthesis, enzyme function, and various physiological processes.
2. Proteins:
- Definition: Proteins are complex macromolecules composed of amino acid chains.
- Functions:
Enzymes: Act as biological catalysts, facilitating chemical reactions.
Structural Proteins: Provide support and structure to cells and tissues.
Transport Proteins: Move substances within cells or across cell membranes.
Antibodies: Contribute to the immune system’s defense.
- Levels of Structure:
Primary: Sequence of amino acids.
Secondary: Localized folding patterns (alpha helix, beta sheet).
Tertiary: Overall three-dimensional structure.
Quaternary: Arrangement of multiple protein subunits.
3. Cells:
- Definition: Cells are the basic units of life.
- Types:
Prokaryotic Cells: Lack a true nucleus and membrane-bound organelles (e.g., bacteria).
Eukaryotic Cells: Contain a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles (e.g., plant and animal cells).
- Functions: Cells carry out various functions, including metabolism, reproduction, and response to stimuli.
4. Enzymes:
- Definition: Enzymes are biological catalysts that speed up chemical reactions.
- Substrate Specificity: Enzymes are specific to particular substrates.
- Active Site: Region of the enzyme where substrate binding and catalysis occur.
- Cofactors and Coenzymes: Assist enzymes in catalytic activity.
5. Metabolism:
- Definition: Metabolism is the sum of all chemical reactions in an organism.
- Catabolism: Breakdown of complex molecules into simpler ones with the release of energy.
- Anabolism: Synthesis of complex molecules from simpler ones, requiring energy input.
6. DNA and RNA:
- Genetic Material: DNA carries genetic information, and RNA assists in protein synthesis.
- Structure: DNA is a double-stranded helix; RNA is typically single-stranded.
- Transcription and Translation: Processes involved in gene expression.
7. Cellular Respiration:
- Definition: Cellular respiration is the process by which cells generate energy from nutrients.
- Stages: Glycolysis, Krebs cycle, and Electron Transport Chain.
- ATP Production: ATP is the energy currency of the cell.
8. Photosynthesis:
- Definition: Photosynthesis is the process by which plants convert light energy into chemical energy.
- Stages: Light-dependent reactions and Calvin cycle.
- Oxygen and Glucose Production: Oxygen is released, and glucose is synthesized.
9. Cell Signaling:
- Definition: Cell signaling involves communication between cells through signaling molecules.
- Types: Autocrine, paracrine, endocrine signaling.
- Receptors: Cells have receptors that bind specific signaling molecules.
10. Homeostasis:
- Definition: Homeostasis is the maintenance of a stable internal environment within an organism.
- Feedback Systems: Negative and positive feedback mechanisms regulate physiological variables.
What would else would you add?