Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Review

This set of flashcards covers essential concepts from biochemistry and molecular biology classes, focusing on terms and definitions vital for exam preparations.

What is biochemistry?

The study of the structure and behavior of complex molecules in biological systems at the molecular level.

What are the components of homeostasis?

A receptor, a control center, and an effector.

What is the equilibrium constant (K_eq)?

The ratio of the concentration of products to reactants at equilibrium.

What is ATP?

Adenosine triphosphate, the universal energy currency of all biological systems.

What are the four main types of biomolecules?

Carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids.

What is the major role of glucose?

Energy production, particularly as the sole energy source for some tissues.

What characterizes prokaryotic cells?

Simplicity and lack of internal compartments (organelles).

What is a plasmid?

A small circular piece of DNA that can replicate independently within a bacterial cell.

What does the central dogma of molecular biology describe?

How DNA encodes genetic information leading to functional gene products, primarily proteins.

What is the structure of DNA?

DNA consists of two strands that form a double helix, with a backbone made of deoxyribose sugar and phosphate groups.

What is the difference between RNA and DNA?

RNA contains uracil instead of thymine and has a hydroxyl group on carbon 2 of the ribose sugar.

What is a codon?

A triplet of nucleotides that codes for a specific amino acid.

What is the role of ribosomal RNA (rRNA)?

Forms components of the ribosomes responsible for protein translation.

What is a restriction enzyme?

An enzyme that recognizes specific DNA sequences and cuts the DNA at those sites.

What is the purpose of polymerase chain reaction (PCR)?

To amplify specific segments of DNA.

What is differential gene expression?

The process by which cells with the same DNA can express different genes, leading to different cell types.

What are prokaryotes?

Prokaryotes are single-celled organisms that lack a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles.

What are eukaryotes?

Eukaryotes are organisms whose cells contain a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles.

Cell membrane (in both prokaryotes and eukaryotes)

The cell membrane is a lipid bilayer that protects the cell and controls the movement of substances in and out.

Ribosomes

Ribosomes are the site of protein synthesis found in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells.

Cytoplasm

Cytoplasm is the gel-like substance within the cell membrane where cellular components are held.

Nucleus

The nucleus is a membrane-bound organelle in eukaryotic cells that contains the cell's genetic material.

Mitochondria

Mitochondria are membrane-bound organelles in eukaryotic cells that produce energy through respiration.

Chloroplasts

Chloroplasts are organelles found in plant cells (eukaryotes) that conduct photosynthesis.

Plasmids

Plasmids are small circular DNA molecules found in prokaryotic cells that can replicate independently.

Cell wall (in prokaryotes and plant eukaryotes)

The cell wall is a rigid outer layer that provides support and protection; found in prokaryotes and plant eukaryotes.