A property of molecules or chemicals that refers to their usefulness as food because they can be metabolized (metabolism) by organism.

A process of changing the membrane potential from negative to more positive values. The sign of the potential refers to the inside of the cell. Depolarization causes action potentials in neurons and muscle cells. (See also hyperpolarization; op.). Depolarization is the result of inward currents carried by Na+ and Ca++ ions.

(a) In physiology: a process by which nutrients move from the lower digestive tract (small and large intestine or colon) into the blood stream to be utilized by the body. (b) In spectroscopy: the interaction between atoms and radiation (light, X-rays, UV, infrared), where some of the energy of the radiation is absorbed by the electrons of the atoms [..]

A spontaneous self-propagating change in membrane potential that travels as a 'wave' along electrically excitable cell membranes found in neurons and muscle cells. Action potentials are triggered when the cell's membrane potential depolarizes (i.e. becomes more positive with respect to the internal side) beyond a threshold value of u [..]

A process in biological evolution as the result of natural selection where a species becomes better adjusted to the living conditions of its environment (temperature, food sources, and predators). In adaptation, individuals that have the most offspring contribute more of their genetic makeup to the next generation. Beneficial traits are favored in [..]

A specialized cell that is needed for growth, wound healing and tissue regeneration. Adult stem cells are found in all tissues and organs of animals and plants.

The genetic variant of a gene. A gene can be found in different variants in a population, even in the same individual. Alleles are responsible for the different traits of certain characteristics, such as eye and hair color in animals, and flower and seed color in plants. Alleles are also responsible for genetic diseases.

Building block of proteins and enzymes. Dietary proteins need to be broken into their amino acid components before they can be used by the body. Note that there are 20 amino acids found in proteins. Many nutritional lists describe only 18 occluding glutamine and asparagine. Their values are included in those reported for the acidic forms glutamate [..]

Biosynthesis of molecules in cells and part of metabolism.

A molecule that protects cells from oxidative damage of oxygen and free radical molecules that are chemically unstable and cause random reactions damaging proteins, nucleic acids, and cell membranes. Examples of dietary antioxidants are vitamins C, E, and K, and diverse plant products such as lycopene, a nutraceutical found in tomatoes.