In the last installment of Three Chromosomes in a Trench Coat, we learned about gene expression and epigenetics. This episode takes a look at how changes in gene expression can drastically change the phenotype of an organism and help it survive in a changing environment (Spoiler alert -- at the root they are the same processes). In many cases changing the expression of a few genes allows organisms to adapt to a change in the environment. For example, when the environment gets hotter, an insect (clam, spider, anemone, … [Read more...] about Science Corner: More than Three Chromosomes in a Trench Coat Part 3
gene expression
Science Corner: More than Three Chromosomes in a Trench Coat Part 2
In the previous post, Three Chromosomes in a Trench Coat, we learned that 1) a phenotype is the observable characteristics of an organism, 2) the phenotype is the result of interactions between the genome and the environment, and 3) the phenotype is not just the appearance of the organism but also includes where the organism is able to live. I also discussed why I think understanding about phenotypes is interesting and important. In this installment we will take a look at some of the nitty-gritty mechanics involved in … [Read more...] about Science Corner: More than Three Chromosomes in a Trench Coat Part 2
Science Corner: Methods Maketh Metaphor
I am generally bullish on the use of metaphors for understanding the world around us. I find Douglas Hofstadter and Emmanuel Sander's idea that metaphors are central to language and thought to be fairly compelling. I recognize the potential for a metaphor to lead one down a primrose path. At the same time, how else are we to think and communicate about something like the interior of a biological cell, an environment none of us could ever actually visit or experience? If we cannot avoid metaphors, we can at least be … [Read more...] about Science Corner: Methods Maketh Metaphor