Cell Biology and Biochemistry Review

These flashcards cover key concepts related to cellular organization, organelle evolution, the properties of water, and noncovalent interactions in biochemistry.

Mycoplasma mycoides JCVIsyn3.0

A synthetic genome organism that has 473 genes, with 149 genes whose function is unknown, measuring 0.5-2 µm.

Endosymbiosis

A theory suggesting that eukaryotic cell evolution was mediated by engulfed bacteria becoming organelles.

Mitochondria

Organelles that evolved from aerobic bacteria, facilitating efficient aerobic metabolism in eukaryotes.

Chloroplast

An organelle that developed from engulfed cyanobacteria, enabling photosynthesis in certain eukaryotes.

Weak (Noncovalent) Forces

Forces that include hydrogen bonds and ionic interactions, critical for the behavior and structure of biological molecules.

Hydrogen Bonds

Weak interactions formed between a hydrogen atom covalently bonded to an electronegative atom and another electronegative atom.

Hydrophobic Effect

The tendency of nonpolar substances to aggregate in aqueous solutions to minimize their exposure to water.

Amphiphilic Molecules

Molecules that have both polar (hydrophilic) and nonpolar (hydrophobic) regions, capable of forming micelles and membranes.

Solvation Sphere

The structured arrangement of solvent molecules around a solute ion, particularly during ionic interactions in solution.

Biomolecular Recognition

The process by which molecules recognize and bind to each other, often mediated by weak chemical forces.