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Assembly Quote by Bruce Alberts

“We have always underestimated the cell...The entire cell can be viewed as a factory that contains an elaborate network of interlocking assembly lines, each of which is composed of a set of large protein machines...Why do we call [them] machines? Precisely because, like machines invented by humans…” quote by Bruce Alberts
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“We have always underestimated the cell...The entire cell can be viewed as a factory that contains an elaborate network of interlocking assembly lines, each of which is composed of a set of large protein machines...Why do we call [them] machines? Precisely because, like machines invented by humans to deal efficiently with the macroscopic world, these protein assemblies contain highly coordinated moving parts.”

Bruce Alberts

About This Quote

Source Book: “Molecular Biology of the Cell” by Bruce Alberts et al., 2002

Cells operate like factories with coordinated protein machines, highlighting biological efficiency.

In simple terms: Cells are tiny factories.

Key Takeaway

Study cellular mechanisms for bio‑engineering insights.

Themes

biology efficiency systems

Mood

analytical curious

Type

scientific educational

When to use this quote

  • medical research
  • biotech design
  • education curricula

Key Concepts

molecular machines cellular organization

Questions to Reflect On

  • What are the limits of comparing cells to machines?
  • How does this view affect ethical decisions in biotech?
A Different Perspective

Complexity can oversimplify living systems.

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