Molecular Mechanisms of Disease - HSS 2305 C00

This set of flashcards contains key vocabulary and definitions related to the molecular mechanisms of disease, as introduced in the course HSS 2305 C00.

Genome

The complete set of genes or genetic material present in a cell or organism.

Transcription

The process of copying a segment of DNA into RNA.

Translation

The process by which a protein is synthesized from the mRNA template.

RNA splicing

The modification of mRNA in which introns are removed and exons are joined together.

Introns

Noncoding sequences of DNA or RNA that are removed during RNA processing.

Exons

Coding sequences of DNA or RNA that remain in the mRNA after splicing.

Phosphorylation

The addition of a phosphate group to a molecule, often regulating protein activity.

Hydrophobic

Molecules that do not interact well with water; water-fearing.

Hydrophilic

Molecules that interact well with water; water-loving.

Amino Acids

Organic compounds that serve as the building blocks of proteins.

Peptide Bond

The chemical bond formed between two amino acids during protein synthesis.

Mitochondria

Organelles that are the powerhouses of the cell, producing ATP through respiration.

Cell Signaling

The process by which cells communicate with each other via signaling molecules.

Homeostasis

The maintenance of stable internal conditions in an organism.

Hypertrophy

An increase in the size of cells, which can lead to an increase in the size of the affected organ.

Metaplasia

The reversible replacement of one differentiated cell type with another.

Dysplasia

Abnormal changes in the size, shape, and organization of mature cells.

Ligand

A molecule that binds to a receptor to stimulate a biological response.

G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs)

A large family of proteins that act as receptors and are important for signal transduction.

Covalent Bond

A type of chemical bond where atoms share pairs of electrons.

Active Transport

The movement of molecules across a cell membrane from a region of lower concentration to a region of higher concentration, requiring energy.

Enzyme

Biological catalysts that accelerate chemical reactions in the body.