Experienced Biotechnology Graduate Teaching Biology for IB, AP & GCSE Boards. Specialized in Genetics, Anatomy, Physiology & Zoology

The class focused on advanced cell signaling mechanisms, specifically exploring calcium ion signaling pathways. The Student and Tutor discussed the roles of IP3, calmodulin, and G-proteins in regulating cellular functions, including muscle contraction, gene expression, olfaction, and vision. The session concluded with an introduction to gaseous signaling, which will be covered in the next class.

The session focused on foundational concepts in organic reaction mechanisms, covering the classification and properties of different solvents, and the roles of reactants like substrates, reagents, and intermediates. The Tutor and Student thoroughly analyzed the factors affecting the stability of carbocations and carbanions, including resonance, hyperconjugation, hybridization, and inductive effects. They concluded with a plan to review a list of electron-donating and withdrawing groups in the next class.

Student and Tutor reviewed gas laws, including Boyle's, Charles's, Pressure-Temperature, Combined, and Ideal Gas Equations, solving various numerical problems. They also covered Dalton's Law of Partial Pressures, Amontons' Law of Partial Volume, and Graham's Law of Diffusion and Effusion. Towards the end, they briefly discussed Electromagnetic Radiation and the Hydrogen Spectrum in preparation for an upcoming unit test.

The session focused on G-protein coupled receptor signaling pathways, specifically detailing the Cyclic AMP (cAMP) and phospholipase C beta pathways. The Tutor explained the roles of Protein Kinase A (PKA), CREB, IP3, DAG, Protein Kinase C (PKC), and calcium ions as crucial second messengers. They also covered how these pathways are regulated, their cellular effects, and the mechanism of certain anti-inflammatory drugs, with plans to discuss feedback mechanisms and other receptor concepts next.

The Student and Tutor reviewed existing knowledge on cell signaling, then extensively covered the structure and function of G-protein-linked receptors and their associated trimeric G-proteins. They discussed the mechanisms of G-protein activation and deactivation, the roles of cyclic AMP and calcium ions as second messengers, and the actions of stimulatory and inhibitory G-proteins, including the effects of cholera and pertussis toxins. The next class will focus on the cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinase concept.

The Student and Tutor commenced a review of fundamental chemistry concepts, focusing on matter classification and the properties of gases for an upcoming unit test. They covered the Kinetic Molecular Theory, general gas characteristics, and the measurable parameters of gases, including units and conversions. The session culminated with an in-depth explanation and practice of Boyle's Law. They agreed to schedule another session before the Student's Tuesday unit test to review further gas laws.