BIOL 111: Topics in Contemporary Biology

This video traces the evolution of genetic understanding, beginning with Mendel's foundational pea plant experiments, which birthed basic inheritance laws. It delves into complexities like co-dominance, incomplete dominance, and polygenic inheritance. Highlighting the integral role of DNA, it explains its structure and replication, shedding light on mutations. The narrative underscores the interplay of genes with the environment, introducing epigenetics and the myriad ways genes express, shaping

Learn about the role of Erythropoietin (EPO), a natural kidney hormone, in controlling red blood cell production and oxygen transport. Discover how athletes misuse synthetic EPO for performance enhancement, despite the associated health risks.

Unlock the language of genetic history with our guide to understanding pedigrees and their symbols. Learn how to interpret squares circles and lines to track inheritance patterns for traits and diseases.

Discover the intricacies of action potentials in the nervous system. Unpack five statements on why they move in one direction, spotlighting the role of the refractory period. Grasp the significance of voltage-gated channels and ion flow in neural communication.

Discover the critical role iodide ions play in regulating metabolism through their involvement in thyroid hormones. Learn how active transport enables the movement of these ions in the body, requiring ATP energy. Uncover common sources of iodide ions and their importance in medical applications.

Explore the relationship between monomers and polymers, focusing on nucleic acids and their building blocks. This video clarifies the distinctions between various biological molecules and their basic units, emphasizing the critical role of nucleotides in nucleic acids.