B Pharmacy Sem 2: Remedial Biology / Mathematics
Subject : Remedial Biology / Mathematics (as applicable)
1. If Remedial Biology:
- Cell Biology & Biomolecules
- Basic Genetics & Human Organ Systems Review
- Plant Anatomy & Physiology
- Microbiology Fundamentals
2. If Remedial Mathematics:
- Algebraic Expressions & Logarithms
- Differentiation & Integration Basics
- Elementary Statistics (Mean, Median, Mode)
- Pharmaceutical Calculations Review
Lets See first the Remedial Biology:
Unit 1: Cell Biology & Biomolecules
This unit introduces the fundamental structural and functional aspects of the cell and the chemical building blocks (biomolecules) that underpin all cellular processes.
1.1 Cell Theory & Cell Types
Cell Theory:
All living organisms are composed of one or more cells.
The cell is the basic unit of life.
All cells arise from pre‑existing cells.
Prokaryotic vs. Eukaryotic Cells:
Feature Prokaryote Eukaryote Nucleus Absent; DNA in nucleoid True nucleus with nuclear envelope Organelles Few membrane‑bound (ribosomes) Numerous (mitochondria, ER, Golgi, etc.) Size 0.1–5 µm 10–100 µm Examples Bacteria, Archaea Animal, plant, fungal, protist cells
1.2 Cell Membrane & Transport Mechanisms
Fluid Mosaic Model: phospholipid bilayer with embedded proteins, cholesterol, glycoproteins.
Membrane Functions: barrier, signal transduction, cell recognition, transport.
Transport Processes:
Passive:
Simple diffusion (small non‑polar molecules)
Facilitated diffusion (via channels/carriers)
Osmosis (water through aquaporins)
Active:
Primary active transport (e.g., Na⁺/K⁺‑ATPase)
Secondary active transport (symporters/antiporters)
Vesicular: endocytosis (phagocytosis, pinocytosis), exocytosis.
1.3 Membrane‑Bound Organelles & Their Roles
Organelle | Structure & Function |
---|---|
Nucleus | DNA storage; transcription; nuclear pores for traffic |
Endoplasmic Reticulum | Rough ER: protein synthesis; Smooth ER: lipid synthesis, detoxification |
Golgi Apparatus | Protein/glycoprotein modification, sorting, packaging |
Mitochondria | ATP production via oxidative phosphorylation; apoptosis regulation |
Lysosomes | Digestive enzymes degrade macromolecules, organelles |
Peroxisomes | β‑oxidation of fatty acids; detoxify H₂O₂ via catalase |
1.4 Cytoskeleton & Cell Division Overview
Cytoskeleton:
Microfilaments (actin): cell shape, movement, cytokinesis
Microtubules (tubulin): vesicle transport, mitotic spindle
Intermediate Filaments: mechanical support
Cell Cycle Phases:
G₁ (growth), S (DNA replication), G₂ (preparation), M (mitosis)
Checkpoints: G₁/S, G₂/M ensure genomic integrity
1.5 Biomolecules: Building Blocks of the Cell
1.5.1 Carbohydrates
Monosaccharides (glucose, fructose), disaccharides (sucrose), polysaccharides (glycogen, cellulose).
Functions: energy source (glycolysis), structural (cell wall), cell recognition (glycocalyx).
1.5.2 Lipids
Neutral lipids: triglycerides for energy storage
Phospholipids & glycolipids: membrane structure
Steroids: cholesterol (membrane fluidity), precursors for steroid hormones
Function: energy, insulation, membrane integrity, signaling (eicosanoids).
1.5.3 Proteins
Amino acids linked by peptide bonds.
Levels of structure: primary → secondary (α‑helix, β‑sheet) → tertiary → quaternary.
Functions: enzymes (catalysis), transport (hemoglobin), signaling (receptors), structural (collagen).
1.5.4 Nucleic Acids
DNA: deoxyribonucleotides store genetic information in double helix.
RNA: ribonucleotides (mRNA, tRNA, rRNA) mediate gene expression.
Functions: replication, transcription, translation.
1.6 Clinical & Pharmaceutical Relevance
Membrane Transporters as drug targets (e.g., P‑gp efflux pumps affecting bioavailability).
Enzymes in drug metabolism (e.g., cytochrome P450 in ER).
Mitochondrial toxicity: some drugs disrupt oxidative phosphorylation (e.g., certain antivirals).
Biomolecule assays: quantification of proteins (Bradford), nucleic acids (UV absorbance) in QC.
1.7 Key Points for Exams
State the cell theory and distinguish prokaryotes from eukaryotes.
Describe the fluid mosaic model and list transport mechanisms.
Match major organelles to their functions.
Outline the cytoskeletal components and cell cycle phases.
Identify the four classes of biomolecules, their subunits, and primary roles.
Unit 2: Basic Genetics & Human Organ Systems Review
This unit provides a foundational understanding of genetic principles relevant to pharmacy (drug response, pharmacogenomics) and a concise review of major human organ systems, emphasizing their physiological functions and relevance to pharmacotherapy.
2.1 Introduction to Genetics in Pharmacy
2.1.1 DNA Structure & Function
Double Helix: two antiparallel strands of deoxyribonucleotides (A–T, G–C base pairing).
Genes: DNA segments encoding proteins or functional RNA.
Chromosomes: organized DNA–protein complexes; humans have 23 pairs.
2.1.2 Gene Expression
Transcription: DNA → pre‑mRNA in nucleus (RNA polymerase II).
RNA Processing: 5′ cap, poly‑A tail, splicing of introns → mature mRNA.
Translation: mRNA → polypeptide at ribosomes; tRNA delivers amino acids.
2.1.3 Genetic Variation & Pharmacogenomics
Polymorphisms: single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) can alter drug‑metabolizing enzymes (e.g., CYP450 variants), transporters, or receptors.
Examples:
CYP2D6 Poor Metabolizers: risk of toxicity with codeine (reduced conversion to morphine).
TPMT Deficiency: high risk of myelosuppression with thiopurines.
Clinical Application: genotype‑guided dosing improves safety and efficacy.
2.2 Mendelian Genetics
Principle | Description |
---|---|
Law of Segregation | Two alleles of a gene segregate during gamete formation; each gamete carries one allele. |
Law of Independent Assortment | Genes for different traits assort independently if on different chromosomes. |
Dominant & Recessive | Dominant allele expresses phenotype in heterozygote; recessive requires homozygosity. |
Genotype vs. Phenotype | Genotype = genetic makeup; phenotype = observable trait influenced by genotype and environment. |
2.2.1 Punnett Squares & Inheritance Patterns
Autosomal Dominant: one mutant allele causes disease (e.g., familial hypercholesterolemia).
Autosomal Recessive: two mutant alleles required (e.g., cystic fibrosis).
X‑Linked: mutation on X chromosome (e.g., hemophilia A).
2.3 Human Organ Systems Overview
System | Major Functions | Pharmacological Relevance |
---|---|---|
Cardiovascular | Pumping blood, nutrient/gas transport, pressure regulation | Antihypertensives, antiarrhythmics, anticoagulants |
Respiratory | Gas exchange (O₂/CO₂), acid–base balance | Bronchodilators, steroids, antibiotics for pneumonia |
Digestive | Ingestion, digestion, absorption, waste elimination | Proton‑pump inhibitors, antiemetics, antidiarrheals |
Nervous | Sensory input, processing, motor output | Analgesics, antiepileptics, psychotropics |
Endocrine | Hormone secretion for metabolism, growth, reproduction | Insulin, thyroid hormones, corticosteroids |
Renal/Urinary | Filtration, excretion, fluid/electrolyte balance | Diuretics, ACE inhibitors, electrolyte supplements |
Musculoskeletal | Support, movement, mineral storage | NSAIDs, muscle relaxants, bone‑active agents (bisphosphonates) |
Immune/Lymphatic | Defense against pathogens, fluid balance | Vaccines, immunosuppressants, monoclonal antibodies |
Integumentary | Protection, temperature regulation, sensation | Topical corticosteroids, antibacterials, emollients |
Reproductive | Gametogenesis, hormone production | Hormonal contraceptives, fertility agents |
2.4 Selected System Highlights
2.4.1 Cardiovascular System
Heart: cardiac cycle, contractility; drug targets include β‑adrenergic receptors and calcium channels.
Vasculature: smooth muscle tone regulated by nitric oxide, angiotensin II; antihypertensives act here.
2.4.2 Renal System
Nephron Function: filtration, reabsorption, secretion; diuretics target specific nephron segments (e.g., loop diuretics at ascending loop).
2.4.3 Nervous System
Neurotransmitters: acetylcholine, dopamine, serotonin; psychotropic drugs modulate these pathways.
Blood–Brain Barrier: impacts CNS drug delivery; lipophilicity and transporters are key.
2.5 Integrating Genetics and Physiology
Pharmacokinetics (PK): genetic variation in metabolizing enzymes affects absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion.
Pharmacodynamics (PD): receptor polymorphisms alter drug response (e.g., β₂‑adrenergic receptor variants affect asthma therapy).
Personalized Medicine: combining genotype data with organ‑system knowledge to tailor therapy.
2.6 Key Points for Exams
Describe DNA → RNA → protein central dogma and relate to drug target synthesis.
Explain Mendelian inheritance laws and apply Punnett squares to basic scenarios.
Recognize major organ systems, their primary functions, and corresponding drug classes.
Illustrate how pharmacogenomic variants (e.g., CYP450) influence drug metabolism and therapy.
Integrate genetics with physiology to understand personalized pharmacotherapy.
Unit 3: Plant Anatomy & Physiology
This unit provides a foundational overview of plant structure and function, emphasizing aspects relevant to pharmacognosy and herbal drug technology.
3.1 Plant Cell & Tissue Organization
Tissue Type | Location | Characteristics & Functions |
---|---|---|
Meristematic | Shoot/root apices, cambium | Undifferentiated, actively dividing cells—growth zones |
Dermal | Epidermis | Protective outer layer; cuticle reduces water loss |
Ground | Cortex, pith | Parenchyma (storage/photosynthesis), collenchyma (support), sclerenchyma (rigidity) |
Vascular | Xylem & phloem bundles | Xylem transports water/minerals; phloem translocates photosynthates |
3.2 Root Anatomy & Function
Primary Structure:
Epidermis with root hairs for absorption
Cortex of parenchyma for storage
Endodermis with Casparian strips regulating solute entry
Stele containing xylem (star‑shaped in dicots) and phloem
Physiological Roles:
Water and mineral uptake via apoplastic and symplastic routes
Anchoring plant and storage of carbohydrates
3.3 Stem Anatomy & Transport
Externally: nodes (leaf attachment) and internodes; lenticels for gas exchange in woody stems
Vascular Arrangement:
Dicots: ring of vascular bundles; cambial layer produces secondary growth
Monocots: scattered vascular bundles; no true secondary growth
Xylem Vessels & Tracheids: thick‑walled conduits for bulk water flow
Phloem Sieve Tubes & Companion Cells: living elements for bidirectional sugar transport (pressure‑flow mechanism)
3.4 Leaf Structure & Photosynthesis
Leaf Region | Features | Role |
---|---|---|
Epidermis & Cuticle | Waxy cuticle, stomata guard cells | Minimize water loss; gas exchange regulation |
Mesophyll | Palisade (chloroplast‑rich) & spongy cells | Light capture and CO₂ diffusion |
Veins | Vascular bundles | Deliver water; export photosynthates |
Photosynthesis (C₃ pathway):
Light Reactions (thylakoid membranes): H₂O → O₂; ATP & NADPH generation
Calvin Cycle (stroma): CO₂ fixation by Rubisco → triose phosphates → sucrose/starch
C₄ & CAM Adaptations: spatial (bundle sheath) or temporal (night fixation) separation to minimize photorespiration—important in certain medicinal plants.
3.5 Transpiration & Mineral Nutrition
Transpiration Stream:
Cohesion‑tension mechanism pulls xylem sap upward
Regulated by stomatal aperture (ABA hormone triggers closure under drought)
Essential Minerals & Uptake:
Macronutrient Function Deficiency Symptom N (nitrate) Amino acids, chlorophyll Chlorosis, stunted growth P (phosphate) ATP, nucleic acids Dark green leaves, delayed maturity K (potassium) Osmoregulation, enzyme activation Marginal chlorosis, weak stems Mycorrhizae: symbiosis enhancing phosphate and water uptake—relevant in cultivation of medicinal herbs.
3.6 Secondary Metabolite Production
Pathways: derived from phenylpropanoid, terpene, and alkaloid biosynthesis
Functions: defense (phytoalexins), attraction (pigments), allelopathy
Pharmaceutical Relevance: source of drugs (e.g., morphine, quinine, flavonoids)
3.7 Key Points for Exams
Distinguish meristematic, dermal, ground, and vascular tissues.
Label root and stem transverse sections; explain the role of the endodermis and cambium.
Outline leaf anatomy and the two stages of photosynthesis.
Describe the cohesion‑tension theory of transpiration and factors affecting stomatal behavior.
List major macronutrients, their roles, and deficiency symptoms in plants.
Explain how secondary metabolites are synthesized and their importance in drug discovery.
Unit 4: Microbiology Fundamentals
This unit provides an essential overview of microbiological principles, focusing on microorganisms relevant to pharmacy, sterilization, and infection control.
4.1 Classification of Microorganisms
Group | Characteristics | Examples in Pharmacy |
---|---|---|
Bacteria | Prokaryotic; diverse shapes (cocci, bacilli); cell walls (Gram +/–) | Contaminants in sterile products; probiotics (Lactobacillus) |
Fungi | Eukaryotic; yeasts (unicellular) and molds (multicellular) | Antibiotic producers (Penicillium); spoilage in oral liquids |
Viruses | Acellular; require host cells; DNA or RNA genome | Contamination risk in biologicals; viral vectors in gene therapy |
Protozoa | Unicellular eukaryotes, often motile | Rare in pharmaceuticals; models for drug screening |
Algae | Photosynthetic eukaryotes | Sources of toxins (cyanobacteria) in natural products |
4.2 Microbial Cell Structure & Growth
Bacterial Cell Envelope:
Gram‑positive: thick peptidoglycan, teichoic acids; retains crystal violet.
Gram‑negative: thin peptidoglycan, outer membrane with lipopolysaccharide; safranin counterstain.
Fungal Structure: chitin cell wall; ergosterol in membrane (antifungal target).
Viral Structure: protein capsid, sometimes lipid envelope; classification by Baltimore system.
Microbial Growth Curve:
Lag Phase: adaptation, no division
Log (Exponential) Phase: rapid division, target for antibiotics
Stationary Phase: nutrient depletion, waste accumulation
Death Phase: decline in viable cells
4.3 Sterilization & Disinfection
Method | Mechanism | Uses in Pharmacy |
---|---|---|
Moist Heat (Autoclave) | Denatures proteins; steam under pressure | Sterile solutions, surgical instruments |
Dry Heat (Oven) | Oxidation and protein denaturation | Glassware, metal instruments |
Filtration | Physical removal of microbes (0.22 µm filters) | Heat-labile liquids, vaccines |
Radiation (Gamma, UV) | DNA damage | Single-use plastics, surface decontamination |
Chemical Sterilants | Alkylation or oxidation (e.g., ethylene oxide, glutaraldehyde) | Medical devices, tubings |
Alcohols & Phenolics | Protein denaturation, membrane disruption | Surface disinfection, skin antisepsis |
4.4 Aseptic Techniques & Contamination Control
Cleanroom Classifications: ISO 5–8; controlled airflow, HEPA filtration.
Aseptic Practices: gowning, glove use, laminar flow hoods, minimal movement.
Media Preparation & Sterility Testing:
Culture media (e.g., nutrient agar, Sabouraud’s) for microbial enumeration.
Bioburden Testing: pre-sterilization microbial load.
Sterility Test: incubate product samples in fluid thioglycollate and soybean–casein media per pharmacopeia.
4.5 Antimicrobial Agents & Resistance
Antibiotics Production: fermentation organisms (e.g., Penicillium chrysogenum for penicillin).
Mechanisms of Action: inhibit cell wall synthesis, protein synthesis, nucleic acid synthesis, or membrane function.
Resistance Mechanisms: enzymatic degradation (β‑lactamases), efflux pumps, target modification.
Pharmacological Relevance: formulation of stable antibiotic products; stewardship to prevent resistance.
4.6 Quality Assurance in Microbiology
Environmental Monitoring: settle plates, active air sampling in production areas.
Endotoxin Testing: Limulus amebocyte lysate (LAL) for parenterals.
Microbial Limits: specified in pharmacopeias for nonsterile products (total aerobic count, absence of pathogens).
Preservative Efficacy Test: challenge tests to confirm multi-dose container safety.
4.7 Key Points for Exams
Differentiate sterilization vs. disinfection methods and their uses.
Describe the bacterial growth curve and identify the phase most susceptible to antibiotics.
List aseptic techniques critical for sterile manufacturing.
Explain antibiotic mechanisms and basic resistance strategies.
Recall quality control tests in pharmaceutical microbiology (sterility, bioburden, endotoxin, microbial limits).
Lets see the Remedial Mathematics:
Unit 1: Algebraic Expressions & Logarithms
This unit reviews manipulation of algebraic expressions and the fundamentals of logarithms, with applications to pharmaceutical contexts such as concentration calculations and pH.
1.1 Algebraic Expressions
1.1.1 Definitions
Variable: symbol (e.g., x, y) representing a number.
Constant: fixed numerical value (e.g., 5, –2).
Term: product of a constant and one or more variables raised to powers (e.g., 3x², –½ ab).
Polynomial: sum of terms with non‑negative integer exponents (e.g., 2x³ – 5x + 7).
1.1.2 Operations on Expressions
Operation | Rule | Example |
---|---|---|
Addition/Subtraction | Combine like terms (same variables and exponents) | 5x² + 3x – 2x² = (5–2)x² + 3x = 3x² + 3x |
Multiplication | Multiply coefficients; add exponents of like bases | (2x)(3x²) = 6x³ |
Division | Divide coefficients; subtract exponents | (6x³)/(2x) = 3x² |
Expansion | Use distributive law: a(b + c) = ab + ac | x(2x + 5) = 2x² + 5x |
Factorization | Reverse of expansion; common factor or special products (difference of squares, trinomials) | x² – 9 = (x–3)(x+3); x² + 5x + 6 = (x+2)(x+3) |
1.2 Practical Applications in Pharmacy
Formulation Equations: solving for concentrations (e.g., C₁V₁ = C₂V₂ rearranged: V₁ = C₂V₂/C₁).
Batch Calculations: scaling ingredient quantities proportional to batch size.
Rate Equations: half‑life expressions for first‑order kinetics, t½ = (0.693)/k, solved algebraically for k or t½.
1.3 Introduction to Logarithms
1.3.1 Definition
The logarithm base b of a number N is the exponent x to which b must be raised to yield N:
Common Logarithm: base 10 (log N).
Natural Logarithm: base e ≈ 2.718 (ln N).
1.3.2 Logarithm Properties
Property | Formula |
---|---|
Product Rule | |
Quotient Rule | |
Power Rule | |
Change of Base | |
Inverse Relationship | |
1.4 Applications of Logarithms in Pharmacy
pH Calculation:
Example: if [H⁺] = 1.0 × 10⁻⁷ M, pH = –(–7.00) = 7.00.
First‑Order Kinetics:
solved for k or t using natural logs.
Dilution Series: plotting log concentration vs. response for calibration curves in spectrophotometry (linear relationship).
1.5 Worked Examples
Factor & Simplify:
Simplify.
Combine like terms:
.
Solve for Volume:
Given C₁V₁ = C₂V₂: 10 M stock, need 250 mL of 0.2 M.pH Determination:
If an acid solution has [H⁺] = 3.16 × 10⁻⁴ M, find pH.First‑Order Decay:
A drug concentration decreases from 100 mg/L to 25 mg/L in 4 h. Find k.
1.6 Key Points for Exams
Combine like terms, expand, and factor basic polynomials.
Apply C₁V₁=C₂V₂ algebraically for dilution calculations.
Know log rules: product, quotient, and power.
Calculate pH from hydrogen ion concentration using log 10.
Solve first‑order kinetics equations using natural logarithms.