Cellular structures

Systems Biology: Integrating Biological Processes into Complex Systems

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Systems biology is an interdisciplinary field that seeks to understand biological systems as integrated networks of components, processes, and interactions, rather than isolated parts. It combines principles from biology, mathematics, computer science, engineering, and other disciplines to analyze complex biological phenomena at multiple scales, from molecular and cellular levels to tissues, organs, organisms, populations, and … Read more

Aquatic Biology: Life in Water Environments

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Aquatic biology is a branch of biology that focuses on the study of life in water environments, encompassing a wide range of organisms, ecosystems, and processes that thrive in aquatic habitats. From the smallest microorganisms to the largest marine mammals, aquatic biology explores the diversity, adaptations, interactions, and ecological dynamics of aquatic life across freshwater, … Read more

The Cell: Fundamental Unit of Life

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The cell, often described as the fundamental unit of life, represents the building block of all living organisms. This microscopic entity is the smallest structural and functional unit of life, capable of carrying out the essential processes necessary for an organism’s survival and reproduction. From single-celled organisms like bacteria to complex multicellular organisms like humans, … Read more

University of Tokyo develops improved mid-infrared microscope with 120 nanometer resolution

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A team at the University of Tokyo have constructed an improved mid-infrared microscope, enabling them to see the structures inside living bacteria at the nanometer scale. Mid-infrared microscopy is typically limited by its low resolution, especially when compared to other microscopy techniques. Their work has been published in Nature Photonics. This latest development produced images at 120 nanometers, … Read more

Scientists develop ultra-strong, lightweight metamaterial for diverse applications

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A 3D printed ‘metamaterial’ boasting levels of strength for weight not normally seen in nature or manufacturing could change how we make everything from medical implants to aircraft or rocket parts. RMIT University researchers created the new metamaterial—a term used to describe an artificial material with unique properties not observed in nature—from common titanium alloy. … Read more

HDAC inhibitor shows promise as part of new combination therapy for high-risk liver cancer in children

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Researchers and medical experts at Baylor College of Medicine are tackling the alarming rise of hepatoblastoma (HB), the most prevalent liver cancer among children. Over the past decade, HB cases have surged globally, marking the steepest increase among all pediatric solid tumors. Addressing this concerning trend, a team spearheaded by Baylor’s researchers has devised a … Read more

High-speed modulation structured illumination microscopy for enhanced 3D imaging

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In the dynamic landscape of microscopy, recent advancements in both hardware and algorithms have propelled our capacity to delve into the microscopic wonders of life. However, the quest for three-dimensional structured illumination microscopy (3DSIM) has faced hurdles due to the complexities of polarization modulation and speed limitations. Introducing the groundbreaking high-speed modulation 3DSIM system dubbed … Read more

Antibiotic

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Antibiotics have revolutionized the field of medicine, providing effective tools to combat bacterial infections and save countless lives. These powerful medications, derived from natural sources or synthesized in laboratories, target bacteria by interfering with their growth and reproduction. The discovery of antibiotics represents one of the most significant breakthroughs in medical history, shaping the landscape … Read more

Role of ribosomes in protein synthesis

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Ribosomes stand as pivotal players in the intricate dance of cellular life, serving as the molecular machineries responsible for protein synthesis. This fundamental process is at the heart of cellular function, enabling the creation of the diverse array of proteins that carry out essential roles in living organisms. The role of ribosomes in protein synthesis … Read more

What is electrophoresis?

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Electrophoresis is a widely utilized laboratory technique in molecular biology that involves the separation of charged particles, such as DNA, RNA, or proteins, in an electric field within a gel matrix. The name “electrophoresis” is derived from the Greek words “electron” (meaning electricity) and “phoresis” (meaning to carry or to move). This method leverages the … Read more

Protein unveiled to prevent aging by mending key organelles

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Maintaining the health of organelles within cells is akin to sustaining the well-being of vital organs in the human body. Among these subcellular structures, mitochondria fuel cellular activities, while lysosomes play a crucial role in maintaining cellular cleanliness. Despite their importance, understanding the regulation and upkeep of these organelles has remained elusive, especially in the … Read more

What is the role of DNA in genetics?

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The role of DNA in genetics is fundamental to our understanding of inheritance, variation, and the transmission of genetic information across generations. DNA, or deoxyribonucleic acid, serves as the hereditary material in most living organisms, carrying the genetic instructions necessary for the development, functioning, and reproduction of cells and organisms. The exploration of this role … Read more

What is biophysics?

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Biophysics is an interdisciplinary field that merges principles from physics and biology to investigate the physical mechanisms underlying biological processes. This dynamic branch of science employs quantitative and analytical approaches to unravel the mysteries of life, exploring how physical forces, energy, and structure govern the behavior of biological systems. Biophysics spans a wide range of … Read more

Biology

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Biology is the scientific study of life and living organisms. It explores a vast range of topics, including the structure, function, growth, origin, evolution, and distribution of living organisms. This discipline delves into various levels of biological organization, from molecules and cells to organisms and ecosystems. Through methods like observation, experimentation, and analysis, biologists seek … Read more

Nuclear gene

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Nuclear genes are the genes located within the cell nucleus of eukaryotic organisms, encompassing a vast array of genetic information that governs the development, function, and regulation of the organism. These genes are housed in the nuclear genome, distinct from genes found in other cellular compartments, such as mitochondria or chloroplasts. Understanding nuclear genes is … Read more

What is a gene?

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A gene is a fundamental unit of heredity, a segment of DNA that contains the instructions for building and maintaining an organism. These instructions govern the development, functioning, and characteristics of living organisms, from single-celled bacteria to complex multicellular beings like humans. The study of genes and their transmission from one generation to the next … Read more

How does photosynthesis contribute to the energy cycle in plants?

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Photosynthesis, the process by which plants convert light energy into chemical energy, plays a pivotal role in the energy cycle of plants and, by extension, in the broader ecosystem. This intricate biochemical process is fundamental to sustaining life on Earth, as it provides the energy necessary for plant growth, development, and reproduction. Examining the various … Read more

What is a cell?

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A cell is the fundamental unit of life, serving as the basic building block of all living organisms. This remarkable structure is the smallest entity that exhibits the characteristics of life, encapsulating the complexity of biological systems within its microscopic confines. The understanding of cells and their functions has been a cornerstone of biology, unraveling … Read more

What role do enzymes play in biological reactions, and how are they regulated?

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Enzymes are fundamental components of biological systems, serving as catalysts for a vast array of chemical reactions within living organisms. Their role is paramount in maintaining the intricate balance of biochemical processes, ensuring the efficient conversion of substrates into products. Enzymes facilitate reactions by lowering the activation energy required for a chemical transformation, thus accelerating … Read more

What is mitochondria?

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Mitochondria are dynamic and vital organelles found in the cells of eukaryotic organisms, playing a central role in energy production and numerous cellular processes. These double-membraned structures are often referred to as the “powerhouses of the cell” due to their primary function of generating adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the cellular currency for energy. However, their significance … Read more