Your insider guide to the stuff of life

3.8 billion years old and counting, theres more than a little to know about the fundamentals of how life works. This friendly guide takes you from the primordial soup to the present, explaining how specialized cells have given rise to everything living, from the humblest amoeba to walking, talking human beings. Whether youre enrolled in a cell or molecular biology course and need a straightforward overview, or are just curious about the latest advances, this fully updated edition is your all-access ticket to our inner world.

Molecular& Cell Biology For Dummiesdecodes jargon and theories that can tax even the most devoted student. It covers everything from basic principles to how new technology, genetic testing, and microarray techniques are opening up new possibilities for research and careers. It also includes invaluable tips on how to prepare forand aceyour exams!

From microscopic details to macro concepts, this book has something for you.

René Fester Kratz, PhD, teaches biology at Everett Community College in Everett, Washington. She works with other scientists and K–12 teachers to develop science curricula that align with national learning standards and the latest research on human learning.

Introduction 1

Part 1: The World of the Cell 5

Chapter 1: Exploring the World of the Cell 7

Chapter 2: Take a Tour inside the Cell 13

Chapter 3: Dead or Alive: Viruses 35

Part 2: Molecules: The Stuff of Life 51

Chapter 4: Better Living through Chemistry 53

Chapter 5: Carbohydrates: How Sweet They Are 77

Chapter 6: Proteins: Workers in the Cellular Factory 87

Chapter 7: DNA and RNA: Instructions for Life 103

Chapter 8: Lipids: Waterproof and Energy Rich 113

Part 3: The Working Cell 121

Chapter 9: Hello, Neighbor: How Cells Communicate 123

Chapter 10: Metabolism: Transferring Energy and Matter 139

Chapter 11: Cellular Respiration: Every Breath You Take 159

Chapter 12: Photosynthesis: Makin Food in the Kitchen of Life 187

Chapter 13: Splitsville: The Cell Cycle, Cell Division, and Cancer 203

Part 4: Genetics: From One Generation to the Next 219

Chapter 14: Meiosis: Getting Ready for Baby 221

Chapter 15: Genetics: Talkin Bout the Generations 233

Part 5: Molecular Genetics: How Cells Read the Book of Life 261

Chapter 16: DNA Replication: Doubling Your Genetic Stuff 263

Chapter 17: Transcription and Translation: Whats in a Gene?  273

Chapter 18: Control of Gene Expression: Its How You Play Your Cards That Counts 291

Part 6: Molecular Biology: Harnessing the Power of DNA 311

Chapter 19: The Book of You: Reading Your Genes 313

Chapter 20: Rewriting the Code of Life: Recombinant DNA Technology and Genome Editing 331

Part 7: The Part of Tens 349

Chapter 21: Ten Important Rules for Cells to Live By 351

Chapter 22: Ten Ways to Improve Your Grade 361

Index 369