Phenotypic Variation: Function, Role & Diseases

Phenotypic variation describes different trait expressions of individuals with the same genotype. The principle was popularized by the evolutionary biologist Darwin. Diseases such as sickle cell anemia are based on phenotypic variation and were originally associated with an evolutionary advantage. What is phenotypic variation? By phenotypic variation, biology refers to the different trait expressions between … Phenotypic Variation: Function, Role & Diseases

Fibrin: Structure, Function & Diseases

Fibrin is a nonwater-soluble, high-molecular-weight protein formed from fibrinogen (clotting factor I) during blood clotting by enzymatic action of thrombin. The medical specialties are histology and biochemistry. What is fibrin? During blood clotting, fibrin is formed from fibrinogen under the action of thrombin. Soluble fibrin, also called fibrin monomers, is formed, which polymerizes into a … Fibrin: Structure, Function & Diseases

Bilirubin: Structure, Function & Diseases

Bilirubin is a breakdown product in hemoglobin metabolism. Macrophages continuously break down old erythrocytes in the liver and spleen to generate bilirubin. If this process is disturbed, the substance accumulates and jaundice develops. What is bilirubin? Bilirubin is the breakdown product of red blood pigment. This pigment is also known as hemoglobin. Red blood cells … Bilirubin: Structure, Function & Diseases

Termination: Function, Tasks, Role & Diseases

Termination is the final phase in DNA replication. It is preceded by initiation and elongation. Premature termination of replication can result in the expression of truncated proteins and thus mutation. What is termination? Termination is the final stage in DNA replication. During replication or reduplication, the genetic information carrier DNA is multiplied in individual cells. … Termination: Function, Tasks, Role & Diseases

Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) represents a rare and severe disorder of hematopoietic cells that is genetic but acquired later in life. Because it is a somatic mutation, germ cells are not affected. If left untreated, the disease can be fatal mainly due to the development of multiple thromboses. What is paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria? Paroxysmal nocturnal … Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

Erythropoietin: Function & Diseases

Erythropoietin, or EPO for short, is a hormone in the glycoprotein group. It functions as a growth factor in the production of red blood cells (erythrocytes). What is erythropoietin? EPO is a hormone produced in the cells of the kidneys. It is composed of 165 amino acids in total. The molecular mass is 34 kDa. … Erythropoietin: Function & Diseases

Erythrocyte Deformability: Function, Role & Diseases

The erythrocyte deformability or flexibility of red blood cells enables the cells to pass through vessels with different lumens. In addition, erythrocytes change shape depending on the temperature and flow rate of the blood, with concomitant changes in blood viscosity. Abnormal shape is assumed by erythrocytes in the context of spherical or sickle cell anemia, … Erythrocyte Deformability: Function, Role & Diseases