Mindblown: a blog about philosophy.

To “cut” a chemical bond (i.e., with a molecule) via hydrolysis.  

A chemical reaction in which a portion (e.g., an atom or a group of atoms) of a molecule is “cut” off the molecule via hydrolysis.  

A technique that used the chemical hydrazine to separate and isolate the oligosaccharide portion from the protein portion of a glycoprotein. The hydrazine chemically “chews up” the polypeptide (i.e., protein) portion of a glycoprotein molecule, leaving the intact oligosaccharides behind. It can subsequently be analyzed (after chromatographic separation from the peptide pieces and other chemical…

A chemical with formula N2H4. Used as a rocket fuel, and in the hydrazinolysis of glycoproteins. A colorless gas, H4N2, with a peculiar odor; soluble in water.  

Various physical substrates (surfaces) onto which have been “attached” genetic materials (DNA, RNA, oligonucleotides, etc.). Relevant complementary genetic materials (e.g., DNA, RNA, oligonucleotides, etc.) then are hybridized onto those attached-tosurface genetic materials for various specific purposes (e.g., detection of the presence of those unattached genetic materials, in the case of biosensor’s hybridization surface). One of…

A naturally occurring hormone that causes the thyroid gland to develop.  

An enzyme that “captures” oxygen free radicals (oxygen atoms bearing an extra electron) e.g., which are generated within an occluded (closed off) blood vessel. Oxygen free radicals are generated within occluded blood vessels when a blood clot blocks arteries in the heart, causing a heart attack. These oxygen free radicals are highly energized and can…

An enzyme that is involved in the control of blood coagulation and fibrinolysis.  

Two viruses identified (so far) which cause acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). HIV-1 and HIV-2 show a preferential tropism (affinity) toward the helper T cells, although other immune system (and nervous system) cells are also infected. The GP120 envelope (surface) protein of HIV-1 and HIV-2 directly interacts (binds) with the CD4 proteins (receptors) on the…

A glycoprotein that is thought to possess a different oligosaccharide when it is produced by a (liver) tumor cell instead of a healthy cell. Thus, it is a possible early warning marker for liver cancer.