Unlike prokaryotes, eukaryotes must process mRNAs before they can be translated into proteins. The primary mRNA transcript is first made by transcription of the DNA by RNA pol II. The transcript contains both introns and exons, hence it is called heterogenous RNA (hRNA). The 5′ end of the hRNA is capped and a polyA tail […]
Dietary supplements are designed to provide nutrients that may otherwise be lacking in the diet. They can be used to improve overall health or to target specific conditions. For example, people who don’t eat enough fruits and vegetables may take a supplement containing vitamins A, C, and E to boost their intake of these important […]
In prokaryotic cells the focus of the regulation of gene expression is almost entirely at the level of the initiation of transcription. However, in eukaryotic cells, regulation of gene expression can occur at all stages of transcription and translation, and even at protein stability. Opportunities for Gene Regulation in Gene Expression in Eukaryotes Those common […]
Gene Regulation at Transcriptional Termination In the previous article we saw how RNA polymerase determines how to start transcription. In this article, we will examine how it decides to end transcription. Before we dive in, however, let’s take some time to remind ourselves of the lay of the land. So far, we are well familiar […]
In the next series of articles I will be covering transcription in prokaryotes. I suppose that this is a topic that you have been introduced to in previous biology classes that you have taken. We will get a more in-depth look into the subject. However, before we dive in, let’s review a few basic concepts. […]
A hypothesis is a proposed explanation for a phenomenon. It is what gives your paper a purpose and provides a roadmap for your readers to understand exactly what the paper will cover. The last thing you want to do is confuse your readers with an overly complicated introduction that lacks focus. This article reveals the […]
In order to write a good research paper, you need to come up with a strong research question. This question will guide your research and help you stay on track as you write your paper. In this article, I’ll reveal the key elements of a good research question using the acronym FIRST (feasible, interesting, relevant, […]
Objective To determine if the type of sugar used in yeast fermentation affects fermentation rate. Background Yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) is a single-celled microorganism used in the production of bread and alcoholic beverages. It is a facultative anaerobe that ferments sugars to make carbon dioxide and ethanol. Facultative means that it can grow whether oxygen […]
The scientific method encourages independent and objective thought through a gathering and analysis of evidence. Hopefully as you take food or related science classes you will develop the skill to reason objectively. I wrote about the scientific method in another article but thought I would speak generally here on objective reasoning. The difference between objective […]
