Biomolecules and Bioinspired Materials

Study Notes

Cells are the fundamental unit of life, functioning as the basic building blocks of all organisms.
Carbohydrates serve as energy sources and are vital in cell structure and recognition processes.
Nucleic acids, including DNA and RNA, carry genetic information and play roles in protein synthesis.
Proteins consist of amino acids and perform various functions such as catalysis, signaling, and structural roles.
Lipids are crucial for forming cell membranes and serving as energy storage molecules.
Enzymes, vitamins, and hormones are biomolecules that facilitate biochemical reactions, regulate metabolism, and coordinate physiological processes.

Echolocation, utilized by certain animals for navigation, has inspired technologies like sonars and ultrasonography.
Photosynthesis serves as a model for developing photovoltaic cells and bionic leaves to harness solar energy.
Birds' flying mechanisms have influenced GPS technology and aircraft design.
The lotus leaf's unique properties inspire the creation of superhydrophobic and self-cleaning surfaces.
Plant burrs have inspired the design of Velcro, using mechanisms of attachment found in nature.
Shark skin's texture reduces friction, influencing the development of friction-reducing swimwear.
Advances in human blood substitutes include hemoglobin-based oxygen carriers (HBOCs) and perfluorocarbons (PFCs).
Biomimetics and biomimicry explore innovative applications based on natural mechanisms and structures.

Hybridoma technology merges biology with engineering to produce monoclonal antibodies.
Plant and animal tissue cultures facilitate studies in genetics, disease, and agricultural applications.
Tissue engineering involves creating biological substitutes to restore damaged tissues or organs.
Nanobiotechnology focuses on the interaction of materials at the nanoscale in biological systems.
Radiology introduces imaging techniques for diagnostic procedures.
High-throughput diagnostics enable the rapid analysis of biological samples in clinical settings.
Bioprocessing related to biological materials enhances production efficiency and sustainability.

Stem cells have versatile applications in regenerative medicine and therapy development.
Bioprinting techniques utilize 3D printing for creating tissue-like structures.
Bioinformatics leverages computational tools for analyzing biological data, with vital applications in genomics and proteomics.
Artificial intelligence aids in the diagnosis and detection of both communicable and non-communicable diseases.
Biosensors are vital for healthcare monitoring, environmental assessment, and ensuring food safety and biosecurity.

Cell theory confirms that all living organisms are composed of cells, which are the smallest units capable of life functions.
Cells replicate through division, ensuring continuity and growth within living organisms.
Genetic material (DNA) is inherited from parent to daughter cells during reproduction, maintaining hereditary traits.
Cells utilize energy through metabolic processes, converting nutrients into energy for survival.

Prokaryotic cells lack membrane-bound organelles and are typically unicellular (e.g., bacteria).
Eukaryotic cells possess organized structures, including membrane-bound organelles, and comprise multicellular organisms (plants and animals).

The cell membrane is a selective barrier controlling the passage of substances in and out of the cell, composed of phospholipid bilayers and proteins.
The cell wall provides structural support and protection, mainly found in plant cells and bacteria.
The nucleus directs cellular activities, houses genetic material (DNA), and is enclosed by the nuclear envelope.
The nucleolus within the nucleus is responsible for ribosome production and assembly.

Animal cells lack a rigid cell wall and chloroplasts, containing a flexible cell membrane and a centrally located nucleus.
Plant cells feature a cellulose cell wall, chloroplasts for photosynthesis, and a large central vacuole for storage and regulation of water and nutrients.