DECODE The Script of LIFE

     Genes are the fundamental units of heredity, acting as the instructions for the synthesis of proteins that perform a multitude of functions within living organisms. Each gene is a segment of DNA located on chromosomes, carrying the code that dictates specific traits or functions. For instance, the gene for eye color contains the blueprint for the production of pigments that give our eyes their distinctive hues, such as blue, brown, or green.     A lleles, on the other hand, are different versions of the same gene that arise due to variations in the DNA sequence at a particular locus on a chromosome. These variations lead to the diversity of traits observed within a species. A single gene for hair color, for example, may have multiple alleles corresponding to black, brown, blonde, or red hair. Similarly, the gene determining blood type possesses alleles A, B, and O, each contributing to the blood type of an individual.      The expression of these alleles can be either dominant o

Cell biology is defined as the branch of biology which deals with the  study of cells . This branch comprises the study regarding  shape, size, types, composition, division, and growth  of the cells. A cell is the basic and  fundamental unit of life , which acts as a building block of the organisms, hence it is crucial to study all the concepts related to cell biology thoroughly. Discovery of cells In 1665, cell discovered by Robert Hooke He actually observed only cell walls Hooke coined the term cell He wrote his findings in a book Micrographia In 1672, Anton Von Leuwenhoek first saw and described live cell Robert Brown later discovered the nucleus All the organisms are composed of micrometre-sized blocks. These  building blocks  are termed as cells. Cells are the living building blocks that  differentiate living organisms  from non-living things. An organism can be made up of a single cell (a Unicellular organism) or many cells (Multicellular organisms). Cells are the fundamental and

  Mendel’s Laws of Inheritance Gregor Johann Mendel (1822–1884) is known as “Father of Genetics”. In 1865, Mendel presented the results of his experiments with nearly 30,000 pea plants. He called genes as “factors”, which are passed from parents to offspring’s. Genes, that code for a pair of opposite traits are called “alleles”. He conducted artificial pollination / cross-pollination experiments using several true-breeding varieties having contrasting traits. Mendel’s Experimental Plant Mendel selected garden pea as his experimental material. Phenotype: Visible expression of genetic constitution e.g., Tall/dwarf Genotype: Genetic constitution of individual e.g., TT, Tt, tt. Mendel’s Observations Monohybrid Cross: Cross involving study of inheritance of one character, e.g., height of plant. Dihybrid Cross: Cross between plants differing in two traits/cross involving study of inheritance of 2 genes or characters. Homozygous: The individual carrying similar alleles for a trait e.g., TT or

  What is a Cell? A cell is defined as the most basic, structural and functional unit of all living organisms. Essentially, a cell is a structure that contains organelles which provide the necessary functions to sustain itself. However, not all cells are the same. Plants have cells that are vastly different from animals. One of the primary differences between the two is the absence of cell walls in  animal cells . Cells also vary in size, with the largest one in the human body being the egg or the female ovum. It measures roughly 1 millimetre across. The smallest cell is the granule cell which is found in the human cerebellum, measuring roughly around 4.5 micrometres in size. Cell Theory This scientific theory, initially formulated by Matthias Schleiden and Theodor Schwann, proposed that all living organisms are composed of cells, and new cells are formed from pre-existing cells. Even though the theory was put forth by Schleiden and Schwann, other notable scientists have contributed to

 As we stride into an era of unparalleled scientific innovation, the future of Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) stands at the forefront of breakthroughs in molecular biology and diagnostics. PCR, a cornerstone technique revolutionizing genetic analysis, continues to evolve, promising even greater precision, speed, and versatility. 🌐 Expanding Horizons: PCR's applications transcend traditional boundaries, from disease diagnosis and forensics to environmental monitoring and beyond. With ongoing advancements, its reach extends to novel fields such as synthetic biology, personalized medicine, and point-of-care testing, democratizing access to crucial information and accelerating research endeavors globally. 💡 Innovative Technologies: Emerging technologies like digital PCR, droplet PCR, and isothermal amplification techniques are reshaping the landscape, offering enhanced sensitivity, multiplexing capabilities, and streamlined workflows. These innovations not only refine existing appli

Organelles are essentially the tiny organs of a cell, each having specific functions. An  organelle  is a compartment within a eukaryotic cellthat has a specific function. The name “organelle” comes from the idea that these structures are to cells what an organ is to the body. Typically, organelles are enclosed within their own lipid bilayers. They are essential for various cellular functions, including energy production, protein synthesis, and cell division. Importance of Organelles Just like an organism depends on organs for survival, a cell depends on organelles. Organelles play critical roles in: Maintaining Cellular Health : They perform specific tasks that are vital for the survival of cells. Energy Conversion : Organelles like mitochondria and chloroplasts convert energyinto forms usable by the cell. Protein Synthesis : Organelles such as ribosomes are crucial in making proteins. History and Etymology The term “organelle” was coined in the late 19th century. The discovery of org

 

In this  fascinating world of cells, DNA, and the intriguing similarities and differences between humans and our closest relatives, chimpanzees. Cells as Building Blocks: A cell is the smallest unit of a living organism. Whether an organism consists of a single cell (like bacteria) or many cells (like a human), it is called an organism. Cells serve as the basic building blocks of all living things. Tissues, organs, and organ systems are formed by the interconnection of different types of cells. For instance: Epithelial cells protect body surfaces and cover organs. Bone cells provide support and protection. Immune system cells fight off invaders. Blood cells transport nutrients and oxygen while removing waste. Despite their diversity, cells across organisms share fundamental characteristics. Human DNA vs. Chimpanzee DNA: Similarity: Humans and chimpanzees share an astonishing 99% of their DNA. Chimps are our “closest cousins in the animal kingdom” . Obvious Similarities: Both laugh when