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Unit 3: "Signatures Of Life"
A signature is a unique mark or symbol which is used by individuals as proof of identity. A more tangible and permanent mark of identity (signature) can be found in the biochemistry of all living beings. DNA, functional proteins, immunity molecules and signaling molecules all possess characteristics which are shared by all living things, but they also can posess uniqueness both individually or in combination, which in turn makes every living creature unique, one of a kind and bearing its own specific biochemical signature.

Area of Study 1: Molecules Of Life
In this area of study, students investigate the activities of cells at molecular level; the synthesis of biomolecules that form components of cells and the role of enzymes in catalysing biochemical processes.Students investigate energy transformations in cells and how autotrophs and heterotrophs obtain their energy requirements, particularly through the processes of photosynthesis and cellular respiration.

Students gain an understanding that DNA and proteins are key molecules of life forms, and that units of DNA code for the production of proteins underpins the relationship between changing the code and changing the molecular products of cells. Students explore applications of molecular biology in medical diagnosis and the design of new pharmaceuticals.

Area of Study 2: Detecting & Responding
This area of study focuses on how cells detect biomolecules that elicit particular responses depending on whether the molecules are ‘self’ or ‘non-self’. Students investigate how signalling molecules, such as hormones and neurotransmitters, assist in coordinating and regulating cell activities by binding to specific receptors on membranes of target cells, initiating a series of molecular changes in response.

Students examine the barriers and mechanisms of organisms that protect them from invasion and infection by pathogenic organisms. They investigate mechanisms that control the effectiveness of pathogens, and specific and non-specific immune responses of organisms to antigens.

Students investigate signalling molecules and their role in regulating activities of organisms such as growth hormones in plants and/or action of antibiotics. They investigate how advances in molecular biology have helped to find causes of disorders in cell communication, and how technologies assist in managing disorders that interfere with coordination and regulation.