19. Emulating Adaptations and Mal-adaptations in Skeletal Systems Flashcards
(12 cards)
What is biomimicry?
Biomimicry is the practice of drawing inspiration from natural adaptations to solve human challenges.
Examples include mosquito proboscises for needle design and hummingbird wings for helicopter technology.
Give two specialized examples of biomimicry.
- Camel nostrils for water desalination
- Giraffe skin for compression systems in venous disorders
What organism serves as a model for limb regeneration studies?
The axolotl (Mexican salamander) serves as a model for limb regeneration studies.
It demonstrates remarkable regenerative abilities without scarring.
What is blastema formation?
Blastema formation is the process involving dedifferentiated cells that rebuild tissues during regeneration.
This is a key mechanism in the axolotl’s regenerative process.
Which microRNAs are critical for coordinating limb regeneration in axolotls?
MicroRNAs such as miR-21 play a critical role in coordinating limb regeneration.
Understanding these mechanisms could aid in developing regenerative therapies for humans.
What evidence suggests humans may retain some regenerative capacity?
Research on ‘molecular clocks’ in human cartilage indicates some vestigial regenerative capacity exists.
Higher protein turnover in joints suggests conserved regenerative mechanisms.
Fill in the blank: Children can regenerate _______ when treated with non-intervention techniques.
fingertips
What is a notable example of rapid adaptation in species due to human-induced changes?
The London Underground mosquito (Culex molestus) evolved to feed on mammals and reproduce without a blood meal.
This adaptation demonstrates rapid evolutionary changes in response to urban environments.
True or False: Evolution proceeds too slowly to observe changes in species.
False
Many species demonstrate rapid adaptation to human-created environments.
What is an example of an evolutionary mismatch affecting human health?
Obesity and metabolic disorders arise from the ‘thrifty gene’ that was advantageous during food scarcity.
This trait has become problematic in modern environments with food abundance.
What are some health issues linked to evolutionary mismatches?
- Back pain due to incomplete adaptation to bipedalism
- Choking risk from shared airway/food passage
- Osteoarthritis with increased prevalence since mid-20th century
- Feet problems from evolved arches
What creates a period of disequilibrium in evolution?
The rapid environmental changes caused by humans create a period of disequilibrium, as evolution is typically gradual.
