Does it really matter if we know what molecules look like? Ummmm, yes! When scientists can visualize the structures of molecules, they are able to design new and better drugs to fight diseases, cancers and arthritis. They can engineer new products like Gorilla Glass, or thread that dissolves inside the body so after surgery doctors don't have to go back in and take them out. Building molecules is fun of course, but as scientists understand the structure of the molecule they can change molecules and their function too. Sickle cell anemia is a terrible affliction for some people. Their red blood cells instead of being round and plump are deformed. When they are deformed they can't transport iron or oxygen to parts of the body. This is a life or death situation, too many sickle cells means no oxygen gets to the lungs...and we know how horrible that would be! Scientists were able to make a model of the molecules in a red blood cell and then they were able to find the mutated protein molecule that causes the cell to "blob out". Hopefully in the future people won't need to suffer this disease because scientists will have unlocked the molecule that causes sickle cells and fix it! Scientists also know the molecular structure of the proteins that make spider silk...the black widow spins a web that has the strength of steel! Knowing about the structure of this molecule has helped engineers produce equally strong fibers that are used for clothing protection for police and firemen, plus using these fibers to create bridges! While we play with making models of molecules in class, there are scientists playing with models of molecules for reals, opening windows of understanding to help humans live longer and be more comfortable.
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Mrs. TaylorI love science! Everything about the world is interesting and never boring. I love to study plants, animals, insects, and people. My favorite subjects are my students who are the most unique organisms on the planet! Categories |