Biological Hierarchy

These flashcards cover key concepts in biological hierarchy, including definitions of relevant terms and processes.

Biological Hierarchy

The organization of living matter from molecules to ecosystems.

Macromolecules

Large complex molecules, essential for life, including carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids.

Oncogenes

Genes that have the potential to cause cancer, often involving predisposition and acquired mutations.

Transcription

The process of copying a segment of DNA into RNA.

Translation

The process by which ribosomes synthesize proteins using the mRNA transcript.

Receptor-mediated chemical cascades

Biochemical pathways initiated by the binding of hormones or neurotransmitters to cell receptors.

Stem cells

Undifferentiated cells capable of giving rise to various cell types.

Zoonotic diseases

Diseases that can be transmitted from animals to humans.

One Health

An integrative approach recognizing that the health of people is connected to the health of animals and the environment.

Asthma

A chronic respiratory condition characterized by airway inflammation and obstruction.

COPD

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, a progressive lung disease that obstructs airflow.

Coronary artery disease

A condition characterized by the narrowing of coronary arteries due to atherosclerosis.

Atherosclerosis

The buildup of fats, cholesterol, and other substances in and on the artery walls.

Neuropathology

The study of diseases of the nervous system tissue.

Invasive species

Non-native species that spread widely in a new habitat, causing harm to the environment.

Ecosystem functions

Natural processes that maintain ecosystems, such as water filtration and species interactions.

EDCs

Endocrine disruptor chemicals that can interfere with hormonal systems.

Climate change

Long-term alteration of temperature and typical weather patterns in a place.