BTRY 1440: Comparative Physiology

Discover the Oparin-Haldane hypothesis detailing Earth's primordial conditions and the potential birth of life. Learn about the abiotic synthesis of organic molecules, the rise of protobionts, and the evolution to the first true cells.

Learn why lipid-soluble signaling molecules like aldosterone only impact specific target cells. We discuss four theories and reveal that intracellular receptors present only in target cells are the key. This video demystifies the unique mechanism behind aldosterone's selective action.

Explore the mysterious rise of MRSA following a battle against S. aureus with methicillin. Delve into various theories, and uncover the power of natural selection in shaping bacterial communities.

Explore the sensory marvels of the male silkworm moth known as Bombyx mori and how they detect specific chemical signals from females. Uncover a hypothesis about the unique sensitivity of the moth's antennae and a prediction stemming from it. Learn how to design an experiment to test this hypothesis and deepen your understanding of insect behavior.

Discover the mechanics of voltage-gated Na+ channels and their role in neuron activity. This video breaks down key neuronal terms like resting potential and threshold to explain precisely when these channels open. You'll come away understanding that voltage-gated Na+ channels open at the threshold state initiating an action potential.

Unravel the origins of blood cell types as we differentiate between myeloid and lymphoid stem cells, highlighting the unique lineage of platelets, B cells, and Natural Killer cells.