Question

Dr. Mary Schweitzer got one of the leg bones to analyze. Dr. Schweitzer’s assistant dissolved the bones in acid and discovered that some soft tissue had survived even after 68 million years. The discovery was a shock to the scientific community. No one had ever found such old tissues.

Next, Dr. Schweitzer looked for evidence of proteins in the T. rex tissues. She matched several samples from the fossil to parts of the modern protein collagen. Dr. Schweitzer’s discovery was so revolutionary that very few scientists believed her results. She repeated the experiment several times with great care. Each time she got the same results. In 2017, the scientific community finally accepted that proteins really could survive intact for 68 million years.

Considering the body’s organization from atoms to organ systems, in which level of organization are proteins like collagen? Describe how this level of organization fits into the organization of the whole body.

Answer 1

Proteins like collagen are at the molecular level of organization in the body and contribute to the structure and function of cells, tissues, organs, and organ systems.

Step-by-step explanation:

Proteins like collagen are at the molecular level of organization in the body. They are made up of amino acids and play critical roles in the structure and function of cells and tissues. Collagen, for example, is a key component of connective tissues such as tendons, ligaments, and skin, providing strength and elasticity.

At the whole body level, proteins like collagen contribute to the organization and function of organs and organ systems. For example, collagen fibers in bone tissue give strength and support to the skeletal system, while collagen fibers in blood vessels help maintain their structure and integrity.

In summary, proteins like collagen are at the molecular level of organization and play important roles in the structure and function of cells, tissues, organs, and organ systems in the body.