AIU Requirement for Photosynthesis for Chloroplasts to Function in A Body Discussion

Assignment Details

Photosynthesis and Chloroplasts

You will read that only plants, algae, and some bacteria are photosynthetic. There is an exception to this, however. One species of sea slug has found a way to steal chloroplasts, store them in glands lining its digestive tract, and live on the sugar that is produced (Milius, 2010). The sea slug has even commandeered the genes to help repair these chloroplasts to keep them working for 9 months—longer than the algae would (Fang, 2015)!

What if animals and humans could be engineered to have chloroplasts and could then use photosynthesis?

Focus your discussion on ONE of the following topics:

1. Describe at least 2 benefits and 2 drawbacks there might be for animal cells (including humans) to make their own food through photosynthesis.
2. Explain which cells, tissues, or organs should be modified to lead to successful photosynthesis in animals or humans. Discuss how these compare to a plant’s leaves.
3. Describe the process of photosynthesis to explain at least 1 requirement for photosynthesis that would need to be considered for chloroplasts to function in an animal or a human.

Review the following links for materials to enhance your knowledge and assist with your discussion post:

• Chloroplast-Stealing Sea Slug
• Sea Slug Steals Photosynthesis Genes from Algae
• Solar-Powered Humans?
• Photosynthesis

Use at least 1 credible source to support the arguments presented in your post.

References

Fang, J. (2015). Sea slug steals photosynthesis genes from algae. Retrieved from http://www.iflscience.com/plants-and-animals/sea-s…

Farabee, M. J. (2007). Photosynthesis. Retrieved from https://www2.estrellamountain.edu/faculty/farabee/BIOBK/BioBookPS.html

Lemaster, J. (2016). Solar-powered humans? Retrieved from: https://livingwelldaily.com/solar-powered-humans/

Milius, S. (2010). Green sea slug is part animal, part plant. Wired. Retrieved from: http://www.wired.com/wiredscience/2010/01/green-se…

In your own words, post a response to the Discussion Board, and comment on at least 2 other postings. You will be graded on both level of engagement and the quality of the contribution to the discussion.

Discussion Board Reminders:

• Must have three posts: A Main Post and two replies to peers.
  • First post: Either your main post or a reply to others must be posted before midnight CT (Central time) on Friday of each week.
  • Second and third post: Must be posted on a different day from the first post.
• Connect to Content: At least one post must refer to course learning materials. See the Academic Resource on Discussion Boards for help with connecting to the content.
• Engaging in Class Discussions: For more information on making the most of your class dialog, review the Academic Resource on Discussion Boards.

Grading Rubric

Assignment Criteria	Proficient Descriptor	Points
Quality of Main Post 27 Points Total	Student’s main post meets or exceeds the following requirements Responds completely to all of parts of discussion question. (7 points) Communicates content information accurately and/or logically (7 points) Delivers a thoughtful response demonstrating insights and reflections (7 points) Connects to both key content concepts and personal experiences (6 points)	/27 pts.
Response to Peers 24 Points Total	• Responds to a minimum of 2 peers. (12 points per response) Substantive response (6 points) Furthers the conversation with peers. Examples could include: (6 points) Provides additional resources Connects to key concepts Shares personal or professional experiences Contributes new information or perspective Presents a competing viewpoint	/24 pts.
Support from Learning Resources 4 Points Total	At least one post refers to course learning resources.	/4 pts.
Professional Writing 5 Points Total	Response is well-organized, clear and free of grammatical and mechanical errors. Posts demonstrate courtesy and respect for others.	/5 pts.
Total		/60 pts.