BIOL 221: Microbiology

Explore the critical components of the Peripheral Nervous System (PNS), including nerves and ganglia. Understand the distinction between sensory and autonomic ganglia and the composition of nerves' layers. Learn why nerves and ganglia lack the protective meninges found in the CNS and how they facilitate essential signal transmission within the body.

Learn how bioremediation works to treat contaminated environments and how microbes can help clean up pollutants. We evaluate multiple scenarios zeroing in on oil-degrading bacteria as a prime example of the process.

Dive into the structural and functional differences between cardiac and skeletal muscles. Discover unique features, like intercalated discs and neuromuscular junctions, that set them apart. Understand the similarities and distinctions to answer a quiz question effectively.

Explore the pivotal role of enhancers in gene expression as we dissect their function and interaction with transcription factors. Gain insights into how they crucially influence the transcriptional control of genes.

Explore the vital roles of pharyngeal slits in lancelets and tunicates. Learn how these clefts aid in filter-feeding, capturing food particles, and evolve through different life stages.

Explore the role of human placental lactogen (hPL) in this informative video. Learn how hPL prepares the breasts for lactation, debunking other hypotheses about its functions in nourishing the placenta or regulating the menstrual cycle. Discover the primary function of this remarkable placental hormone.