Water changes behavior dramatically when it enters our bodies.
After studying the mysterious reactions in our cells, scientists learned that the water contained in them tries in every possible way to escape from captivity, while at the same time playing a key role in their function.
We all know how important water is for the existence and maintenance of life. We drink it, we bathe in it and it makes up a huge part of our planet. Even our cells do not ignore the need for this fluid. But a recent study examining the functions of our cells discovered pretty serious differences between the water they consume and the water we’re used to, writes Newswise.
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Inside cells there are small spaces in which specific reactions take place. These spaces, known as condensates, have long been the subject of scientists’ interest. And although scientists knew about condensates, the exact reasons for their formation and the conditions necessary for their formation were not fully understood.
A group of specialists from the Center for Theoretical Chemistry at the Ruhr University Bochum in Germany worked in this direction. Professor Lars Schaefer and Dr. Saumyak Mukherjee used computer models to understand what actually happens in these cell condensates. Thanks to the work carried out, scientists have discovered that water plays a much larger role here than previously thought. In addition, the water present there behaves significantly differently than the liquid we are used to.
The condensates in our cells are filled with larger molecules such as proteins and nucleic acids. Imagine a room full of different toys, each toy serving its own purpose. Only certain toys, or in this case molecules, can form these special spaces that are necessary for certain chemical reactions in our cells. If something goes wrong with these reactions, serious illness can result.
But back to the water. Mukherjee and Schaefer found that water, which may seem insignificant compared to these large molecules, plays a key role in the formation of condensates. We are talking about numerous tiny water molecules that are often lost against the background of much larger molecules.
Water behaves differently in condensate than outside. The water molecules trapped in the condensate don’t like to stay in a small space, while those outside enjoy far greater freedom. But despite the fact that water molecules are trapped and prefer freedom, their presence is necessary for the formation of condensation.
The study provides new insights into how the small and simple molecule water influences our complex world of cellular processes. Although large molecules like proteins have always been in the spotlight, it is important not to lose sight of the smaller elements that also play a huge role in the proper functioning of our bodies.
This discovery only underscores the infinite ingenuity of nature and evolution and reminds us that every component, no matter how small or insignificant it may seem, plays a role. Who would have thought that water, our daily drink, shows such interesting and freedom-loving behavior in our cells and also forms the basis for their functioning? As research in this area advances, understanding this role could pave the way to a better understanding of cell function and possible treatments for a variety of serious diseases.
Previously focus wrote about the real effectiveness of water in burning calories and losing weight. Some claim that drinking lots of fluids can help you lose weight, but researchers have discovered whether this is actually true.
Also focus wrote about the actual expiration dates of bottled water. Wondering if you can drink water from a bottle you picked out from your old stash? Here’s what you need to know before opening it.
This material is for informational purposes only and does not contain advice that could affect your health. If you have any problems, contact a specialist.
