Molecular "vitalism"

Article Abstract:

A few personal favorite examples, starting from macromolecular assembly and increasing in complexity and scale to patterning in vertebrate embryology are discussed to illustrate the nature of biological organization and explore potential underlying chemical principles. As the twentieth century comes to an end, genetics is central in biological thought. It is worthwhile to ask to what extent the postgenomic view of modern biology would convince a nineteenth century vitalist that the nature of life is now known. Further annotating the database of genes may not be the end. The physicochemical nature of living systems may need to be explored. Sequence information is often far removed from mechanisms that promote function of proteins, embryos, and cells. Nineteenth century thinking on life is reviewed.

Research, History, Identification and classification, Taxonomy (Biology), Cytochemistry, Embryology, Experimental, Embryological research, Biology, Cell differentiation, Life, Chemotaxis, Biophysics, Mitosis, Life (Philosophy)

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Anteroposterior patterning in hemichordates and the origins of the chordate nervous system

Article Abstract:

Research has been conducted on chordate central nervous system which might have originated from a noncentralized nervous system of a deuterosome ancestor. The authors suggest that deuterosome ancestor might have initially had a diffuse nervous system which centralized due to chordate lineage evolution.

Analysis, Genetic aspects, Central nervous system, Gene expression, Cell research, Cytological research, Chordata, Chordates

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How do antidepressants work? Prospects for genetic analysis of drug mechanisms

Article Abstract:

Prospects for genetic analysis of drug mechanisms are discussed relative to antidepressants in this review article. Several techniques, some involving worms, nematodes, or flies, are covered as they relate to fluoxetine (Prozac) and serotonin and could be applied to other neuroactive substances.

Complications and side effects, Antidepressants, Caenorhabditis elegans, Fluoxetine, Prozac (Medication), Nematoda, Nematodes, Serotonin

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