Since the last knowledge connection question we have discussed the structure of DNA, transcription and translation. In biology we discussed the processes of transcription and translation as well as the structure of DNA. We discussed DNA further in chemistry. In biochemistry the discussion was more in depth. We discussed the interactions of other proteins with the DNA and in more detail the super structures. Transcription and translation put more emphasis on transcription factors, enzymes and initiation factors. Before this class it seemed like we knew about these subjects from other courses. After taking it we realize that we have only scratched the surface.
Now we are beginning to discuss catabolism and anabolism. These subjects were discussed in biology as well. We memorized the Citric Acid Cycle without fully understanding the chemical process. In chemistry we learned about oxidation reactions and redox reactions. In this course we are putting the two together. Making the connection helps to understand why a reductive process requires energy and an oxidative process releases energy. Further discussion in biochemistry focused on the reactions that occur between each of the ten steps of glycolysis. This showed in more detail how one sugar molecule proceeds through the cycle to become two pyruvate molecules ready to advance to other pathways depending on the conditions. As with transcription and translation this discussion reminds us of the magnitude of importance that these small steps have on everyday functions. It also gives us the understanding of how small irregularities can have a huge impact on the overall processes.
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I couldn’t agree with you more about realizing that we have only scratched the surface. It is funny because on the first day of class I scanned through the syllabus and thought “Wow, I have already learned about most of these topics”. Yet, as the class progressed I was forced to accept that my knowledge of DNA, transcription and translation was elementary to say the least. Before this class I had no clue what a TATA box was or even that zinc fingers existed.
ReplyDeleteI will admit that it is much easier to commit to memory the simplified workings of DNA. However, at the same time I am happy that I have learned about the many types of DNA and the different ways in which transcription and translation take place in eukaryotes and prokaryotes. I think that after having taken this if someone asked us what is transcription was we would have a much more extensive and thorough explanation. Needless to say we truly have only scratched the surface. There is always more to learn and always more details to add to our knowledge base which is truly what makes science exciting.
Thanks Jessie for your comments. There is always more to learn and it is very exciting. It boggles my mind to think that others before us spent so much time thinking and discovering these microscopic functions and processes. One hundred years ago some of the discoveries were so new and have grown and developed to what we are learning now. It is amazing to think of what will be learned in the next one hundred years.
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