Cellular Metabolism and Genetics Review

These flashcards cover the key concepts of cellular metabolism and genetics as discussed in the lecture.

What common feature is shared by all photosynthetic organisms and many non-photosynthetic organisms?

ATP synthase pumps are found in all of these organisms.

What is produced by the excitation of proteins in photosystems during photosynthesis?

Electrons are transported, leading to the production of NADPH.

What two compounds represent energy produced during photosynthesis?

NADPH and ATP.

In the context of photosynthesis, what is oxidized?

Water is oxidized in photosystem II.

What is the end product of oxidative phosphorylation compared to photosynthesis?

Oxidative phosphorylation produces water; photosynthesis produces NADPH.

What cycle is unique to photosynthetic organisms for glucose production?

The Calvin-Benson cycle.

In the Calvin-Benson cycle, what is required to regenerate RuBP?

Carbon dioxide, ATP, and NADPH are all required.

What metabolic process do plant cells undergo for energy when glucose is low?

Plants perform oxidative phosphorylation and glycolysis.

What is the role of allosteric feedback inhibition in enzyme regulation?

It inhibits enzymes when the products of that enzyme are no longer needed.

What does DNA serve as in living organisms?

DNA serves as the information system that tells cells how to function.

What happens when there is a mutation in DNA?

The nucleotide sequence changes, which can affect the function of the genes.

What are purines and pyrimidines?

Types of nucleotides found in DNA, where purines pair with pyrimidines.

What are the roles of topoisomerase and helicase during DNA replication?

Topoisomerase unwinds DNA; helicase unzips the DNA strands.

What is the purpose of DNA polymerase in DNA replication?

DNA polymerase synthesizes new DNA strands by adding complementary nucleotides.

What suggests that DNA is self-replicating?

DNA contains the code necessary to create the enzymes needed for its own replication.

What is a promoter in the context of transcription?

A sequence on DNA that signals where transcription should begin.

How are proteins made from DNA?

Through the processes of transcription and translation.

What is the difference between mRNA and tRNA?

mRNA carries the genetic code for proteins; tRNA brings amino acids to the ribosome.

What is the universal language of DNA?

The four nucleotide bases: adenine, thiamine, cytosine, and guanine.

What is the significance of the first amino acid in a protein chain?

It is always methionine, coded by the start codon.

Why can't cells afford to use the entire library of DNA for protein synthesis?

It would be inefficient; cells only use the specific genes necessary at that time.