Molecular and Cell Biology

Shaping Success: A Mathematical Exploration of Cyanobacteria across Scales

ABSTRACT Mathematical models and functions are familiar tools used to study biological systems and interactions, in particular with the study of infectious diseases. Epidemic and pandemic dynamics, however, are only one example of their applications for adding analysis, understanding, and insight into complex topics. In this essay, cyanobacteria’s size and

Max Bai, Sierra Bushey, Maria Delgopiatof, and Valerie Syme

The Biochemical Nature of Cyanobacteria

ABSTRACT Cyanobacteria are a phylum of gram-negative bacteria that have been found in a vast range of habitats including Antarctic lakes, hot thermal springs, tropical soil, and even arid climates. These microorganisms have gained attention for their photosynthetic capabilities, long history on Earth, and more recently, eutrophic blooms due to

Max Bai, Sierra Bushey, Maria Delgopiatof, and Valerie Syme

Coral Polyps and the Chemical Symphony of Survival

Abstract While coral polyps have been extensively studied across various scientific perspectives, this paper will specifically explore them from a chemical standpoint. The coral polyp’s biomineralization process is investigated, highlighting its critical role in creating a suitable habitat. The chemical reaction between bicarbonate and calcium produces aragonite crystals which form

Michael Beyrouthy, Cris Izzi, Claudio Petroni, Alex Tsiskakis

The Metabolism and Movement of Dinoflagellate from a Chemical Perspective

Abstract Dinoflagellates produce neurotoxins that target the voltage-gated channels of muscle and nerve cells. Consumption of these toxins through contaminated seafood is the cause of human illnesses such as paralytic shellfish poisoning (PSP). Some of these toxins are complex molecules and are some of the largest naturally produced carbon chains

Thalia Azadian, Arda Barlas, Sophia Chen, Simon Girard

The Chemistry of Unicellular Green Algae (Chlamydomonas reinhardtii)

Abstract Chlamydomonas reinhardtii, a unicellular green alga, possesses a sophisticated chemical repertoire that enhances its adaptability and interaction with its environment. This paper delves into the alga’s chemical composition and biological mechanisms, revealing how they contribute to its survival and functional versatility, as well as drawing from the alga’s ingenious

Ai-Lan Ji-Eun Nguyen, Tesnim Obey, Anders Schwarz and Jackson Yu

Underwater Chemists; Discussion of Design Solutions in Tintinnid Ciliates

Abstract In this essay we explore tintinnids’ intricate design solutions through the lens of chemical processes and pathways, emphasizing the vital role chemistry plays in their survival. These ciliates employ complex chemical processes that regulate digestion, reproduction, self-protection, and swimming mechanisms. We explore the cell and life cycle of tintinnids,

Alexa Bailey, Lou Cubberly, Margaux-Blondin Routhier, Niall Slack-Watkins

The Biochemical Features of Tardigrades and Their Roles in Maintaining Cellular Functional Integrity

Abstract Extensive studies have been carried out regarding tardigrades’ so-called tun state as a means of survival in the face of all sorts of harsh environmental conditions. While the surviving capabilities of tardigrades in inhospitable habitats are outstanding and worth examining, many of the ways by which they succeed in

Luccia Jabbour, Eden Karp-Foster, Jeremy Lachance, and Wadi Zahka

Nature’s Nanomagnets: A Chemical Perspective on Magnetotactic Bacteria

Abstract Magnetotactic bacteria (MTB) are complex organisms that have evolved a multitude of internal chemical processes to survive their harsh environments. This paper discusses the details of important biological molecules, metabolic systems, and molecular mechanisms that contribute to the vital functions of MTB. Notably, biomineralization is a chemical, multi-step process

Alex Gagnon, Catriona Kirk, Jason Li, Sofian Martinais

A Physical Analysis of Magnetotactic Bacteria: Nature’s Microscopic Compass as a Solution to a Motile Biotope

Figure 1: Magnetotactic Bacteria (Perduca, 2016). Abstract Magnetotactic bacteria (MTB) are unique aquatic microaerophiles that can align and move in the direction of the Earth’s magnetic field. In this paper, the basic physical properties of magnetosomes, some mechanisms, such as magnetotaxis, and phototaxis, involved in the MTB’s motion, and the

Alex Gagnon, Catriona Kirk, Jason Li, Sofian Martinais

Physical Principles Governing the Movement of Dinoflagellates and The Implications for Their Interactions in Aquatic Ecosystems

Abstract Dinoflagellates are unicellular eukaryotic cells. There are around 2400 known species of dinoflagellates. This phylum is very diverse; among different species, we observe several unique characteristics of behavior and morphology. All dinoflagellates, however, have two flagella. These flagella allow them to swim in a unique and interesting manner. A

Thalia Azadian, Arda Barlas, Sophia Chen, Simon Girard

Mathematical Models of Diatoms: Understanding Their Complex Shape, Reproduction and Chain Formation

Abstract Apart from physical and chemical solutions used by the diatom for survival, some features of the unicellular microalgae also could be described in mathematics. For instance, the diatom morphology reveals a striking alignment with the golden ratio and fractal geometry. By examining the silica shells of these unicellular algae,

Peter Matthews-Crochetiere, Daniel Ibrahim, Wenan Liao, Cedric Mackay

Life-Sustaining Processes of the Diatom

Abstract The chemical reactions, processes, and mechanisms that occur inside diatoms are key to their ability to survive and dominate the world of microalgae. Through photosynthesis, the diatom can absorb sunlight and carbon dioxide and then convert them into oxygen and glucose with the help of chlorophyll, which is a

Peter Matthews-Crochetiere, Daniel Ibrahim, Wenan Liao, Cedric Mackay