Genetic minimalists – the "one-gene" virus
More is not always better. Viruses know this best!
Tag: biology
Protein structure for foodies
I haven’t planned my blog to be educational per say, but the other day I stumbled on a thought that was equally ridiculous and fascinating. As I was aimlessly browsing Quora the other day I came across the question “How do I explain the four levels of protein structure …
"Going off the grid" without grid cells in the brain is virtually impossible
Spacial navigation, mind-maps, GPS #neurons and the secrets of the #hippocampus. #incubatorium
DNA – much more than a simple "double helix"
Scientists were able to unravel one more of the many secrets of DNA and learned more about the cunning of living organisms in regard to protecting their genetic material from damage.
SPORES or how I busted Dr. Geller from "Friends"
Spread, infect, intoxicate, poison, reproduce - spores 101
What makes a giraffe?
Giraffes are tall. Only their neck is longer than every person walking on Earth… By a quarter of a human… Ok, if you want the actual number, a giraffe’s neck usually stretches to 2,5m! And yes – they do still have as many vertebrae in their neck as the mice,…
Xenon – the miracle molecule
Noble gases are the chemical equivalent of a teenage kid quietly sitting in its room and not saying much in the school cafeteria, while its friends go party like there's no tomorrow, and then grows up to be the most promising Student Government President and an amazing scientist. When we get tired of big bangs on atomic scale and fireworks on molecular level, it's time to look up the "quiet guy" and see what knowledge for the micro- and macro-universe he can give us. Go, Xenon!
Tickle me pink – what makes us ticklish?
The human skin is the biggest organ in our body and is also the biggest sensory organ. It is just as vital sensory organ as our eyes, ears, tongue and nose. Thanks to it, we are both protected to a great extent by harmful influences of the environment, and are…
Blushing caterpillars (Amazing parasites, part 2)
An incredibly efficient "#killer team with a style" to control #pest #insects.
Dressed to kill (Amazing parasites, part 1)
Parasitic life style is arguably one of the most creative in the whole range of living organisms. There are plenty of explanations why parasites exist – to fill every little gap in the food chain, to boost immunity of host species, to get rid of decomposition, you name it. Parasites…
