MCAT: Biology(and some biochem)

Define the process of conjugation

Exchange of DNA between bacteria via an F factor plasmid through a sex pilus

Define the process of transformation(in bacteria)

Uptake of DNA by bacteria from their environment

Define the process of transduction

Transfer of genes by a virus

What is the function of a phosphotase?

Cleavage of phosphate bonds to remove a molecule of inorganic phosphate

What is the function of a kinsae?

Adding inorganic phosphate groups to molecules

What is the function of a transferase?

Transferring functional groups between molecules

What is the function of an isomerase?

Rearranging the structure of molecules to convert one isomer to another

What path do proteins usually follow to the golgi apparatus?

Cytoplasm to endoplasmic reticulum to golgi apparatus

How many electrons can cytochrome C carry?

1

How does cytochrome C transfer electrons?

It cycles between Fe2+ and Fe3+ during oxidative phosphorylation

What makes for an ideal primer for PCR?

High GC content and GC at the 5’ and 3’ ends

When in meiosis does nondisjunction occur?

Anaphase I

What is K_M in Michaelis-Menten kinetics?

Substrate concentration at which reaction rate is half the maximum capacity

Are L or D isomers of amino acids used to form proteins?

L only

What kind of filament is actin most of the time?

microfilament

A fatty acid is comprised of a long hydrocarbon tail and a head consisting of what?

A carboxylic acid

What is the function of protease?

Cleavage of peptide bonds

What germ layer does the mouth originate from?

Mostly ectoderm

What is indicated when apparent K_M is increased while the apparent V_max is unchanged after a compound is added to a substrate/enzyme mix?

The compound is a competitive inhibitor

What is the function of Na+K+ATPase during neuronal action potential?

Restoration of the resting potential(3 Na+ out & 2 K+ in)

How do glucocorticoids affect muscles?

They increase protein degradation which leads to muscle weakness

Where does most modification of proteins that are to be secreted happen?

the endomembrane system