Dr. Raven The Science Maven explores molecular biology, discussing cellular factories, curing cancer, unravelled DNA, and mysteries of the brain. Learn about the complexity of cells, DNA, proteins, and epigenetics. Find Raven's content, social media, and book recommendations.
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Quick takeaways
Proteins have unique shapes determined by their amino acid composition, which is crucial for their proper functioning.
DNA contains instructions for creating proteins, which play various essential roles in our cells.
Deep dives
Molecular Biology: The Study of Life's Little Structures
Molecular biology is the study of the intricate structures within our bodies that enable us to live and function. It focuses on how molecules interact with each other to carry out life processes and the crucial role that proteins play in these processes.
Protein Folding: A Complex but Essential Process
Proteins, the workhorses of our bodies, have unique shapes that determine their functions. They start as long strings and fold into intricate structures such as beta sheets and alpha helices. The folding is determined by the composition of amino acids in the protein, and this process is crucial for their proper functioning.
From DNA to Proteins: The Language of Life
DNA, the genetic code of our bodies, contains instructions for creating proteins. RNA, a slightly different code derived from DNA, is read by proteins called polymerases to produce proteins. These proteins then carry out various functions within our cells, from facilitating cellular communication to forming organelles and even fighting diseases like cancer.
This one’s got it all: teeny tiny cellular factories, mitochondrial relevancy, what big smelly vats of poop have to do with curing cancer, how many trips to the sun your unravelled DNA could make, and mysteries of the brain. Dr. Raven The Science Maven has a background in molecular biology and a Ph.D in Science Communication, which she puts to work while Alie generally does her best to suppress high pitched noises of excitement. Learn to appreciate your proteins and pick up some noodle analogies while you’re here. That’s so Maven!