Structural View of Biology
Health and Disease
Biomolecular structures allow us to understand the molecular nature of healthy cells and treat the underlying molecular causes of disease. Our cells contain thousands of molecules that must all work in concert to keep us healthy. When any of these molecules fails, or when a poison or pathogenic organism attacks these molecules, it may cause disease. Our bodies have many defenses against disease, and medical science has developed powerful drugs to assist these defenses. Click on any of the sub-categories below to explore further.
Drug Action
Drugs are artificial molecules that we use to modify the function of molecules in cells.
Vitamins and Minerals
Vitamins and minerals are molecules that are essential for good health, and must be obtained in our diet.
Immune System
The immune system protects us from infection by pathogenic organisms.
Toxins and Poisons
Toxins and poisons bind to critical molecules in cells, blocking their action and killing the cell.
Molecular Basis of Disease
Many diseases are caused by malfunctions of cellular molecules.
Blood Clotting
Blood contains a complex collection of molecules to protect against injury.
Viruses
Viruses infect cells, hijacking them and forcing them to create many new copies of the virus.
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