Life arose on Earth more than three billion years ago. How the first self-replicating systems emerged from prebiotic chemistry and evolved into primitive cell-like entities is an area of intense research, spanning molecular and cellular biology, organic chemistry, cosmology, geology, and atmospheric science. Written and edited by experts in the field, this volume provides a comprehensive account of the environment of the early Earth and the mechanisms by which the organic molecules present may have self-assembled to form replicating material such as RNA and other polymers. The contributors examine the energetic requirements for this process and focus in particular on the essential role of semi-permeable compartments in containment of primitive genetic systems.
David W. Deamer Pořadí knih (chronologicky)
Continuing the tradition of its widely-praised previous editions, this text covers challenging concepts such as bioinformatics, bioenergetics, metabolism, enzyme kinetics, thermodynamics, membrane transport, cell signaling, regulatory mechanisms, transcription and translation, signal transduction, and DNA replication and recombination with appropriate depth and clarity. Key topics include a preview of the cell, the chemistry and macromolecules of the cell, and the structure and function of cells and organelles. It delves into bioenergetics, enzymes as life’s catalysts, and membrane structure and transport mechanisms. The book explores chemotrophic energy metabolism through glycolysis, fermentation, and aerobic respiration, as well as phototrophic energy metabolism via photosynthesis. It discusses the endomembrane system, signal transduction mechanisms in neurons, cytoskeletal systems, and cellular movement. Additional topics cover cell adhesion, extracellular structures, the structural basis of cellular information, the cell cycle, DNA replication, sexual reproduction, gene expression, and the regulation of gene expression. The text also addresses cancer cells and microscopy techniques, making it a valuable resource for anyone interested in molecular biology.