Visualizing Cell Processes Series.
Cells and Molecules, Cell Transport and Movement, Photosynthesis and Cellular Respiration, DNA Replication, Mitosis and Cell Reproduction, The Genetic Code and its Translation 2002
Distributed by BioMedia Associates, PO Box 1234, Beaufort, SC 29901-1234; 877-661-5355
Produced by eBioMedia Associates
Director n/a
VHS, color, 15 min. each
High School - Adult
Biology
Date Entered: 11/09/2018
Reviewed by Buzz Haughton, Shields Library, University of California, DavisProgram 1 of the series Visualizing Cell Processes, Cells and Molecules, introduces student to the rudiments of cell biology and evolution through a series of visually stunning electronic micrographs of cells and bacteria. The narrator goes over the concepts of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, DNA, RNA and the evolution of microorganisms to make use of oxygen (aerobic metabolism).
Cell Transport and Movement (program 2) introduces some of the basic structures of cytology including transport proteins, the Golgi complex, lysosomes, enzymes, tubulin, cilia, myosin and actin. Also explained are basic cell activities like encytosis, phagocytosis and pinocytosis. These structures and activities are illustrated with colorful electron micrographs and computer-generated illustrations.
Photosynthesis and Cellular Respiration (program 3) contains many references to chemistry and chemical reactions; accordingly, a background of at least high school-level chemistry is useful although not required. This videotape goes into the chemistry of fermentation, an anaerobic (non-oxygen-requiring) cellular activity, and photosynthesis, occurring in plants. Photosynthesis involves the conversion of light into chemical energy. The video explains these two cellular activities with electronic micrographs and conputer-generated illustrative materials.
Program 4 in the series, DNA Replication, Mitosis, and Cell Reproduction details the phases of mitosis and meiosis and explains the structure and function of DNA, involving amino acids and enzymes. The complex repair capabilities of DNA involving enzymes, that prevent the "mistakes" caused by radiation and occasional mismatching, are explained and illustrated. The structure of chromosomes, essential to cell division, is outlined.
The Genetic Code and Its Translationexplains the chemical structure and metabolic significance of proteins, incorporating the functions of messenger RNA, transfer RNA and ribosomes. The cell repair systems that attempt to control mutation are explained, as well as the disastrous consequences of frame shifts in reproductive cells. The video introduces the basic structure and activity of viruses, using the HIV virus as an example.
The entire series is recommended for high school and introductory college courses in Biology.