Homeostasis
The body's ability to maintain a stable and constant internal condition. The state of balanced function in the body.
Protein
Large and complex molecule consisting of amino acids ( which contain nitrogen) that are essential for living cells.
Epithelial Tissues
Tissues composed of cellular levels that protect outer surfaces of the human body such as skin, mucosa, and intestinal lining.
Connective Tissue
Supportive tissue, such as ligaments, tendons, and fascia, formed from a fibrous matrix.
Nervous Tissue
Tissue capable of conducting impulses that help to connect and communicate signals to other parts of the body.
Micronutrient
Organic compound the body requires in very small amounts ( i.e. vitamins and minerals)
Phytochemical
Chemical substance obtained from plants that is biologically active but non-nutritive.
Co-Factor
Non-protein compound that interacts with another substance to facilitate a transformation.
Genetics
Specific, inherited DNA of an organism, which influences what they become, although environment also plays a key role in the expression of an organism's genetic code.
Gene
A particular sequence in DNA or RNA that controls the expression of a protein, and by extension influences the characteristics of an organism.
Lipid
Organic compound that is insoluble in water, provides structure, storage, and messenger functions in the body.
Cholesterol
Lipid/sterol contained in the body's cells and fluids that act as a precursor to hormones and bodily structures.
Phospholipid
A type of lipid with a hydrophilic phosphate group "head" and a hydrophobic fatty acid "tail" that forms cell membranes.
Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP)
Adenosine molecule with three phosphate groups that supplies energy for the cell.
Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS)
Various substances formed as a byproduct of metabolism that are highly reactive due to the unpaired electron shell.
Lysosomes
Organelle containing hydrolytic enzymes. "Cellular garbage disposals" that help in the process of cellular renewal and/or protection.
Peroxisome
Cytoplasmic organelle with enzymes that help with the breakdown of fatty acids and other macronutrients. Detoxify harmful substances that enter cells.
Receptor-Ligand-Binding Complex
A complex formed between a receptor and a substance to allow for further cellular activity.
Second Messenger
Substance that mediates intercellular activity by relaying a signal from an extracellular molecule.
Ligand
Any substance that binds specifically and reversibly to another chemical entity to form a larger complex.
Facilitated Diffusion
Transport that requires a carrier molecule; occurs when diffusion of a substance on its own is not possible.
Active Transport
Movements of particles from an area of low concentration to an area of high concentration; requires energy and enzymes.
Lock-And-Key Model
Model that explains enzyme specificity. The enzyme and chemical substrate fit together tightly and carry out their reaction.
Induced Fit Model
Model that suggests enzymes are rather flexible structures. The enzyme and chemical substrate undergo structural changes when close to one another.
Co-Enzyme
Non-protein compound that that forms the active portion of an enzyme system. Operates alongside enzymes.
Cristae
Internal compartments of the mitochondria. Folds in which the enzymes and structures responsible for making ATP are located., An in folding of the inner membrane of a mitochondrion that houses the electron transport chain and the enzyme catalyzing the synthesis of ATP.
Ribonucleic Acid (RNA)
Various nucleic acids on a single strand containing ribose and uracil, necessary for the control of cell activities.