Biochemistry Document

Nadia Subance

815009036

BIOL 1362 Assignment 1

1)

a) Factors which influence diffusion across a cell membrane are temperature, solubility, surface area, extent of the concentration gradient and solvent density.

b) Living organisms can alter their membranes so as to alter the rate of diffusion by increasing the surface area of the membrane which would allow a faster rate of diffusion.

c) The movement of glucose from our blood to our cells is where diffusion is important for physiological function in the body.

2) The description of mitochondrial and lysosomal diseases using a table.

| Mitochondrial Diseases | Lysosomal Diseases |

Causes: | 1. This is caused by mutation or changes in genes. | 1. Lysosomal storage diseases are inherited metabolic diseases that are characterized by an abnormal build-up of various toxic materials in the body's cells as a result of enzyme deficiencies. |

| 2. Mitochondrial disease is a chronic, genetic disorder that occurs when the mitochondria of the cell fail to produce enough energy for cell or organ function. | 2. Lysosomal storage disease is caused by a genetic problem. The genes that plan the production of the enzymes is faulty. Both parents must pass the gene on to the child in order for the disease to develop. |

Symptoms: | 1. Poor growth 2. Loss of muscle coordination, muscle weakness 3. Neurological problems, seizures 4. Autism, autistic spectrum, autistic-like features 5. Visual and/or hearing problems 6. Developmental delays, learning disabilities 7. Heart, liver or kidney disease 8. Gastrointestinal disorders, severe constipation 9. Diabetes 10. Increased risk of infection 11. Thyroid and/or adrenal dysfunction 12. Autonomic dysfunction 13. Neuropsychological changes characterized by confusion, disorientation, and memory loss. | 1. Recurrent infections or hernias 2. Developmental delays 3. Muscle problems 4. Neurologic...