Abstract
Using morphological traits and molecular-genetic research methods, the authors have identified 24 species of naked amoeba from natural biotopes. The 18S rRNA gene sequences were obtained for the following species of naked amoeba: Amoeba proteus isolate AP07 (ON907618), Saccamoeba limax isolate SLU_22 (OP894078), Saccamoeba limax isolate SL_Uk19 (OQ520144), Saccamoeba sp. strain IDL777 (MZ079370), Thecamoeba striata isolate THS19 (OQ134482), Thecamoeba striata isolate THS20 (OQ134483), Thecamoeba similis isolate Prut river (OL604177), Thecamoeba similis isolate Baggersee Innsbruck (Baggersee Rossau) (OL604178), Thecamoeba quadrilineata isolate THQD2 (ON398269), Thecamoeba quadrilineata isolate THQA1 (ON398268), Thecamoeba sp. strain THS203 (MZ079371), Stenamoeba stenopodia isolate UKSS7 (OP375108), Stenamoeba stenopodia isolate POLSS7 (OP419588), Korotnevella stella isolate KSD2 (ON398267), Korotnevella stella isolate KSA1 (ON398266), Vexillifera bacillipedes isolate river Dnepr (OK649262), Vannella lata isolate Kamenka river (OL305063), Vannella lata isolate Varta river (OL305064), Vannella sp. strain VLS303 (MZ079372), Vannella simplex isolate Black Sea (OM403052), Vannella simplex isolate Mediterranean Sea (OM403053), Ripella sp. strain RPL100 (MZ079369), Mayorella vespertilioides isolate MV_7 (OP739500), Mayorella sp. isolate MY_7 (OP729930), Acanthamoeba sp. strain ATM123 (MZ079366), Acanthamoeba sp. isolate river Elbe (OK649261), Acanthamoeba polyphaga isolate AcPoly01 (ON908497), Acanthamoeba polyphaga isolate AcPoly15 (ON908496), Acanthamoeba griffini isolate Black sea (OM522832), Acanthamoeba griffini isolate Mediterranean Sea (OM522833), Cochliopodium actinophorum strain COP101 (MZ079367), Cochliopodium minus isolate river Stokhid (OK649264), Cochliopodium sp. strain COP102 (MZ079368), Vahlkampfia avara isolate VA7 (OP179657), Willaertia magna isolate river Teterev (OK649263). All of the naked amoebae species on the phylogenetic tree constructed based on the 18S rRNA gene are located within Amoebozoa and grouped with Tubulinea and Discosea. There are separate groups of freshwater, marine, and terrestrial biotopes; these groups are sister species relative to one another with low results of bootstrap analysis, which shows a low accuracy in the distances of particular amoeba species isolated from different natural biotopes.
0 notes
However, plant cells, unlike animal cells, are further enclosed by a rigid, cellulosic cell wall (Figure 1.4). (...) Plant cells have two types of walls: primary and secondary (see Figure 1.4A).
The cytoplasm of neighboring cells is usually connected by means of plasmodesmata (singular plasmodesma), tubular channels 40 to 50 nm in diameter and formed by the connected plasma membranes of adjacent cells (see Figure 1.4A-D). (...) Secondary plasmodesmata form after cell division is completed, across primary or secondary cell walls (see Figure 1.4A), when small regions of the cell walls are digested by enzymes and plasma membranes of adjacent cells fuse to form the channel. The endoplasmic reticulum network of adjacent cells is also connected, forming the desmotubule (see Figure 1.4C and D) that runs through the center of the channel. Proteins line the outer surface of the desmotubule and the inner surface of the plasma membrane (see Figure 1.4D); the two surfaces are thought to be connected by filamentous proteins (spokes), which divide the cytoplasmic sleeve into microchannels. (...) The transport can be followed by studying the movement of fluorescently labeled proteins or dyes between cells (see Figure 1.4E-G). (...) Thus, single channels, referred to as simple plasmodesmata, can form branched plasmodesmata (see Figure 1.4A) when they connect with each other. (...) As a result, even virus-sized particles can readily move through the plasmodesmata to a neighboring cell (see Figure 1.4F and G). (...) The cell plate-spanning ER tubules establish the sites for the primary plasmodesmata (see Figure 1.4B-D). (...) Once made, guard cells remain cytoplasmically isolated from the rest of the leaf because during the last division that forms them, no plasmodesmata are made in the forming cell plate (note the absence of the green spots that indicate plasmodesmata in the guard cells in Figure 1.4E). (...) The prominent nuclear structure called the nucleolus (see Figure 1.4) consists of the rDNA of the NOR, the proteins that transcribe the rDNA and process the rRNA primary transcripts for assembly into ribosomes, and the immature ribosomes just being assembled. (...) The walls on the different sides of a cell may vary in thickness, in amount and type of impregnating substances, in sculpting, and in frequency of pitting and plasmodesmata – tiny membrane-lined channels that allow passive transport of small molecules and active transport of proteins and nucleic acids between the cytoplasm of adjacent cells (see Figure 1.4).
"Plant Physiology and Development" int'l 6e - Taiz, L., Zeiger, E., Møller, I.M., Murphy, A.
0 notes
Exploring the Marvels of Biological Macromolecules: The Molecular Machinery of Life (Part 3)
Nucleotide Structure: The Building Blocks
Nucleotides, the monomers of nucleic acids, consist of three fundamental components:
1. Phosphate Group (PO4): Provides a negatively charged backbone for the nucleic acid strand.
2. Pentose Sugar: In DNA, it's deoxyribose; in RNA, it's ribose. The sugar moiety forms the framework of the nucleotide.
3. Nitrogenous Base: Adenine (A), Guanine (G), Cytosine (C), Thymine (T) in DNA, and Uracil (U) in RNA. These bases are responsible for the genetic code.
DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid): The Repository of Genes
DNA is a double-stranded helical molecule, with each strand composed of a linear sequence of nucleotides. It encodes the genetic information necessary for an organism's development, growth, and functioning. The Watson-Crick base pairing rules—A with T and C with G
DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid): The Repository of Genes
DNA is a double-stranded helical molecule, with each strand composed of a linear sequence of nucleotides. It encodes the genetic information necessary for an organism's development, growth, and functioning. The Watson-Crick base pairing rules—A with T and G with C—ensure DNA's complementary and faithful replication.
RNA (Ribonucleic Acid): From DNA's Blueprint to Protein Synthesis
RNA plays diverse roles in the cell, including serving as a messenger (mRNA) for protein synthesis, a structural component of ribosomes (rRNA), and an adapter molecule (tRNA) that brings amino acids to the ribosome during translation. Unlike DNA, RNA is often single-stranded and contains uracil (U) instead of thymine (T).
Genome Organization and Chromosomes
Genomic DNA is organized into chromosomes within the cell nucleus. These structures enable efficient storage, replication, and transmission of genetic information during cell division and reproduction.
Replication and Transcription
DNA replication ensures the faithful duplication of genetic material during cell division, while transcription converts DNA into RNA, providing a template for protein synthesis.
Translation
The cellular machinery, composed of ribosomes and tRNA, reads the mRNA code and assembles amino acids into polypeptides during translation, ultimately forming functional proteins.
Genetic Code
The genetic code, a triplet code of nucleotide sequences (codons), dictates a protein's sequence of amino acids. It is nearly universal, with only minor variations across species.
Epigenetics
Epigenetic modifications, such as DNA methylation and histone modifications, regulate gene expression without altering the underlying DNA sequence, pivotal in development and cell differentiation.
Macromolecular interactions are the essence of cellular life. Within the complex microcosm of a cell, countless molecules engage in precise and choreographed dances, forming intricate networks that govern every facet of biology. These interactions, governed by the principles of biochemistry, are the foundation upon which life's processes are built.
Amino Acids: The Building Blocks
Proteins are composed of amino acids organic molecules that contain an amino group (-NH2), a carboxyl group (-COOH), a hydrogen atom, and a distinctive side chain (R group). There are 20 different amino acids, each with a unique side chain that confers specific properties to the amino acid.
Primary Structure: Amino Acid Sequence
The primary structure of a protein refers to the linear sequence of amino acids in the polypeptide chain. The genetic information in DNA encodes the precise arrangement of amino acids.
Secondary Structure: Folding Patterns
Proteins don't remain linear; they fold into specific three-dimensional shapes. Secondary structures, such as α-helices and β-sheets, result from hydrogen bonding between nearby amino acids along the polypeptide chain.
Tertiary Structure: Spatial Arrangement
The tertiary structure is the overall three-dimensional shape of a protein, determined by interactions between amino acid side chains. These interactions include hydrogen bonds, disulfide bridges, ionic bonds, and hydrophobic interactions.
Quaternary Structure: Multiple Polypeptide Chains
Some proteins, known as quaternary structures, comprise multiple polypeptide chains. These subunits come together to form a functional protein complex. Hemoglobin, with its four subunits, is an example.
Protein Functions: Diverse and Essential
Proteins are involved in an astounding array of functions:
1. Enzymes: Proteins catalyze chemical reactions, increasing the speed at which reactions occur.
2. Structural Proteins: Proteins like collagen provide structural support to tissues and cells.
3. Transport Proteins: Hemoglobin transports oxygen in red blood cells, and membrane transport proteins move molecules across cell membranes.
4. Hormones: Hormonal proteins, such as insulin, regulate various physiological processes.
5. Immune Function: Antibodies are proteins that play a crucial role in the immune system's defense against pathogens.
6. Signaling: Proteins are critical in cell signaling pathways, transmitting information within cells.
Protein Denaturation and Folding
Protein Diversity: The vast diversity of proteins arises from the combinatorial possibilities of amino acid sequences, secondary structure arrangements, and three-dimensional conformations.
Nucleic acids, the remarkable macromolecules that govern all living organisms' genetic information, are life's quintessential molecules. These complex polymers of nucleotides play an unparalleled role in the storage, replication, and expression of genetic information, shaping the development, characteristics, and functions of every living entity on Earth. Let's embark on an exploration of the intricate world of nucleic acids.
Nucleotide Structure: The Building Blocks
Nucleotides, the monomers of nucleic acids, consist of three fundamental components:
1. Phosphate Group (PO4): Provides a negatively charged backbone for the nucleic acid strand.
2. Pentose Sugar: In DNA, it's deoxyribose; in RNA, it's ribose. The sugar moiety forms the framework of the nucleotide.
3. Nitrogenous Base: Adenine (A), Guanine (G), Cytosine (C), Thymine (T) in DNA, and Uracil (U) in RNA. These bases are responsible for the genetic code.
DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid): The Repository of Genes
DNA is a double-stranded helical molecule, with each strand composed of a linear sequence of nucleotides. It encodes the genetic information necessary for an organism's development, growth, and functioning. The Watson-Crick base pairing rules—A with T and G with C—ensure DNA's complementary and faithful replication.
RNA (Ribonucleic Acid): From DNA's Blueprint to Protein Synthesis
RNA plays diverse roles in the cell, including serving as a messenger (mRNA) for protein synthesis, a structural component of ribosomes (rRNA), and an adapter molecule (tRNA) that brings amino acids to the ribosome during translation. Unlike DNA, RNA is often single-stranded and contains uracil (U) instead of thymine (T).
Genome Organization and Chromosomes:
Replication and Transcription: DNA replication ensures the faithful duplication of genetic material during cell division, while transcription converts DNA into RNA, providing a template for protein synthesis.
Translation: The cellular machinery, composed of ribosomes and tRNA, reads the mRNA code and assembles amino acids into polypeptides during translation, ultimately forming functional proteins.
Genetic Code: The genetic code, a triplet code of nucleotide sequences (codons), dictates the sequence of amino acids in a protein. It is nearly universal, with only minor variations across species.
Epigenetics: Epigenetic modifications, such as DNA methylation and histone modifications, regulate gene expression without altering the underlying DNA sequence, pivotal in development and cell differentiation.
Macromolecular interactions are the essence of cellular life. Within the complex microcosm of a cell, countless molecules engage in precise and choreographed dances, forming intricate networks that govern every facet of biology. These interactions, governed by the principles of biochemistry, are the foundation upon which life's processes are built.
24 notes
·
View notes
RNA: The Dynamic Molecule Driving Life's Diversity
DNA, the blueprint of life, often steals the spotlight when it comes to genetics. But lurking in its shadow is another crucial molecule, RNA (Ribonucleic Acid), playing a pivotal role in the symphony of life. More than just a passive messenger, RNA boasts a vibrant history and holds exciting potential for the future. Let's embark on a journey to unveil the world of RNA, exploring its captivating story and why it deserves your attention.
The story of RNA's discovery began in 1860 when Friedrich Miescher isolated a mysterious "nuclein" from white blood cells. However, it wasn't until the 1950s that James Watson and Francis Crick, alongside Rosalind Franklin (whose contributions were initially overlooked), unraveled the structure of DNA, relegating RNA to a supporting role as a mere messenger molecule. But the plot thickened in the 1960s when researchers like Howard Temin and David Baltimore stumbled upon reverse transcriptase, an enzyme that could convert RNA into DNA, challenging the long-held "central dogma" of DNA being the sole source of genetic information. This discovery opened the door to a whole new understanding of RNA's diverse capabilities.
The Many Faces of RNA
But RNA isn't just a protein puppet master. There are different types of RNA, each with unique jobs:
Messenger RNA (mRNA): Delivers the protein-making message.
Transfer RNA (tRNA): Brings the amino acids, the building blocks of proteins, to the party. Ribosomal RNA (rRNA): The foreman of the ribosome factory, making sure everything runs smoothly.
Non-coding RNA (ncRNA): A diverse bunch with various roles, from regulating genes to fighting viruses.
The true game-changer came in the early 2000s. Scientists stumbled upon a vast class of non-coding RNAs that don't code for proteins but have diverse and crucial functions. microRNAs (miRNAs), for example, regulate gene expression by silencing specific genes, while long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) control various cellular processes like development and disease. This discovery shattered the dogma that only protein-coding genes mattered, highlighting the crucial roles played by non-coding RNAs.
This newfound understanding of RNA's potential has ignited a revolution in medicine. Researchers are exploring RNA-based therapies for various diseases, from cancer and neurodegenerative disorders to viral infections. mRNA vaccines, like the ones used against COVID-19, harness the power of messenger RNA to deliver genetic instructions directly to cells, triggering immune responses. The future holds even more promise, with scientists exploring techniques like CRISPR-Cas9 to edit RNA and potentially treat genetic diseases.
New discoveries are constantly rewriting our understanding of this versatile molecule. Its adaptability and diverse roles make it a powerful tool for exploring the very essence of life, from evolution and development to disease and therapy. So, the next time you hear about genes, remember that RNA, the often-overlooked player, is just as crucial in shaping the tapestry of life. It's a story of constant evolution, unexpected discoveries, and immense potential, making RNA a molecule brimming with fascination and promise for the future.
11 notes
·
View notes