Lecture 1.1: Course Information and Life Concepts

Flashcards covering the main concepts and logistics from Lecture 1.1 notes.

What is human biology?

Chemical and physical properties that correspond to life; the molecules of life (macromolecules); biological structures and processes; form and function (organs, physiology, health); human genomics; interactions with environment and pathogens; nutrients; microbiome; evolution.

List the six criteria used to define life in the lecture.

Reproduces; grows; metabolizes; responds to stimuli; maintains internal environment; evolves.

What does reproduction (sexual) refer to in this course?

The production of new individuals from parental DNA; a zygote is formed by the fusion of gametes.

What is the Central Dogma as described in Lecture 1.1?

DNA is transcribed to RNA and translated into proteins (gene expression).

What is metabolism in the context of life?

Generation of energy-containing molecules to fuel life; energy ultimately derived from sources such as the sun.

What does maintaining an internal environment mean?

Keeping the body's internal conditions within a stable, narrow range (e.g., pH, fluids).

What is the basic hierarchy of life described in the notes?

Atom → Molecule → Macromolecule → Organelle → Cell → Tissue → Organ → Organ System → Multi-celled organism; increasing complexity.

What is the 'Life' definition set used in the lecture?

Life is defined by reproduction, growth, metabolism, responsiveness to stimuli, maintenance of internal environment, and evolution.

What is human biology?

Chemical and physical properties that correspond to life; the molecules of life (macromolecules); biological structures and processes; form and function (organism physiology, health); human genomics; interactions with environment and pathogens; nutrients; microbiome; evolution.

List the six criteria used to define life in the lecture.

Reproduces; grows; metabolizes; responds to stimuli; maintains internal environment; evolves.

What does reproduction (sexual) refer to in this course?

The production of new individuals from parental DNA; a zygote is formed by the fusion of gametes.

What is the Central Dogma as described in Lecture 1.1?

DNA is transcribed to RNA and translated into proteins (gene expression).

What is metabolism in the context of life?

Generation of energy-containing molecules to fuel life; energy ultimately derived from sources such as the sun.

What does maintaining an internal environment mean?

Keeping the body's internal conditions within a stable, narrow range (e.g., pH, fluids).

What is the basic hierarchy of life described in the notes?

Atom Molecule Macromolecule Organelle Cell Tissue Organ Organ System Multi-celled organism; increasing complexity.

What is the 'Life' definition set used in the lecture?

Life is defined by reproduction, growth, metabolism, responsiveness to stimuli, maintenance of internal environment, and evolution.

What is a Zygote?

A diploid cell resulting from the fusion of two haploid gametes (sperm and egg) during sexual reproduction.

What is Homeostasis?

The process by which living organisms maintain a stable internal environment despite external changes.

What is Gene Expression?

The process by which information from a gene is used in the synthesis of a functional gene product, such as a protein or non-coding RNA.

What is an Organelle?

A specialized subunit within a cell that has a specific function.

What is a Tissue?

A group of similar cells and their extracellular matrix from the same origin that together carry out a specific function.

What is an Organ?

A collection of tissues grouped together into a larger functional unit, performing a specific function.

What defines 'growth' as