Week 18 – Lesson 1 From DNA to Protein Review

Lesson Timeline Quick review of key concepts in transcription and translation. Review of Mutations and discussion of their cause and effect. Research paper – RIPs (Ribosome Inhibiting Proteins).

Task Give a brief outline of how RIPs can be harmful to organisms. Do some research to find out more about the RIP ricin. How does ricin inactivate a ribosome? Find out more about the castor oil plant that produces ricin. Why might a plant need to store a toxin as lethal as ricin in its tissues and seeds? (Hint: think on evolutionary terms and particularly the idea of “an evolutionary arms race”). Identify other plants that store RIPs in their tissues.