BIOL0500: Cell and Molecular Biology Lecture Notes (January 26, 2026)

These flashcards cover key concepts from the lecture on Cell and Molecular Biology, focusing on the structure and function of cells, small molecules, macromolecules, and proteins.

Cells

The fundamental unit of life, coming in a variety of shapes and sizes.

Prokaryotic cells

Cells that lack a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles, exemplified by bacteria.

Eukaryotic cells

Cells that contain a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles.

Macromolecules

Large molecules formed from smaller subunits, including proteins, nucleic acids, carbohydrates, and lipids.

Fatty acids

Building blocks of lipids, with hydrophobic and hydrophilic components.

Nucleotides

Subunits of nucleic acids, composed of a nitrogenous base, five-carbon sugar, and phosphate group.

Amino acids

The building blocks of proteins, containing an amino group, carboxyl group, and a variable side chain.

Peptide bond

A covalent bond formed between amino acids during protein synthesis.

Phospholipids

Major constituents of cell membranes, composed of fatty acid tails and phosphate heads.

Hydrogen bonds

Weak bonds that contribute to the folding and stability of proteins.

Disulfide bonds

Covalent bonds between cysteine residues that help stabilize protein structures.

Glycosidic bond

A covalent bond that links monosaccharides to form disaccharides and polysaccharides.

Antibodies

Proteins produced by the immune system that recognize and bind to specific antigens.

Biomolecular condensates

Membraneless organelles formed through weak interactions between proteins and RNA.