In recent labs dealing with membranes I can not only better
understand them but also physically can tell how they can be easy to manipulate
and are strong. They are beneficial to use because they do not rip effortlessly
and can undergo many different laboratory conditions, were as other things such
as films or gels for example would not be able to stay intact. A cell would not
be capable of performing many and/or all of its functions (mainly inside of the
cell), if it wasn’t enclosed in a resilient external membrane. The membrane has
multiple functions such as acting as a protection shield/selective barrier,
only allowing certain things in and out of the cell, for example virus’s. Many
proteins are allowed to move in and out of the membrane, depending on its size
and shape, and the membrane and/or proteins are able to be dyed to better
visualize specifics of the membrane and what it encompasses. In our recent lab,
such as the Western Blot, we were able to manipulate and transfer proteins onto
a membrane and add a blue like color to dye the protein bands on the membrane
to be able to visualize the results, which then lets students better understand
not only how the Western Block works but better understand the functions and
purpose of the membrane in that specific lab.
Without the membrane the cell would appear nearly as a pile
of mush, having no major function or importance. Membranes can be of all
different sizes, thicknesses, and pore sizes depending on its purpose. A
membrane is almost structured accordingly to what it is needed/used for, for
example a plant membrane and human membrane appear much different due to them
having different functions internally and externally. The membrane is not only
the cells leading support system but also protects the cell from foreign
substances/objects, which may be toxic and/or harmful to the cell, which could in
turn lead to cell death.
You did a very good job explaining how past knowledge applies to your new or repeated lessons. Also i liked how you showed and applied what you've learned to give an example of how the class helps reinforce past and sets up future knowledge.
ReplyDeleteThank you. I thought it would be a good idea to give multiple examples from class and compare them to this blog due to the fact that our classmates would be able to understand what I was talking about and better understand my blog as a whole!
DeleteI think we all agree that connections are being made in this class, but I especially like your example and focus on membranes.
ReplyDeleteSo far, it has been clear to me that membranes seem to be a common place to build connections between subjects. They bring to light polarities, proteins, enzymes, lipids, and so much more. This is definitely a good example of connecting Biochem with past knowledge.
Thank you, I thought it was very important to give examples of the membrane due to the specific question being answered in the blog. I hope my blog about membranes was very helpful and was easy to relate to the material that we have learned in class!
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