How fast does biological chemistry happen?

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SUMMARY

Biological chemistry reactions occur at incredibly rapid rates, often in the range of microseconds to milliseconds. The discussion highlights the speed of molecular interactions, particularly focusing on motor proteins transporting vesicles along microtubules. This process is distinct from muscle contractions, which involve actin and myosin proteins. The use of animations effectively illustrates these complex biochemical processes.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of molecular biology concepts, specifically motor proteins.
  • Familiarity with microtubule structure and function.
  • Knowledge of muscle contraction mechanisms involving actin and myosin.
  • Basic grasp of biochemical reaction rates and kinetics.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the role of motor proteins in intracellular transport.
  • Study the dynamics of microtubules in cellular processes.
  • Explore the mechanisms of muscle contraction in detail.
  • Investigate the kinetics of biochemical reactions in living organisms.
USEFUL FOR

Biochemists, molecular biologists, educators, and students interested in the rapid processes of biological chemistry and cellular mechanics.

DaveC426913
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I've seen this before, but it boggles my mind when I try to put it in the context of a boxer practicing his jabs.
Just how fast are these individual reactions occurring?

giphy.gif

(Did I get he right GIF? It's supposed to be the one of muscles contracting.)
 
Biology news on Phys.org
Looks like a motor protein pulling a vesicle along probably a microtubule, not a muscle contraction, which would be actin and myosin.
Here's an animation:
 
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