Albert L. Lehninger

"We can consider cellular energy conversions—like all other energy conversions—in the context of the laws of thermodynamics."

"Despite these common properties, and the fundamental unity of life they reveal, it is difficult to make generalizations about living organisms."

"All living organisms fall into one of three large groups that define three branches of evolution from a common progenitor."

"Perhaps the most remarkable property of living cells and organisms is their ability to reproduce themselves for countless generations with nearly perfect fidelity. This continuity of inherited traits …"

"The first living organisms on Earth doubtless arose in an aqueous environment, and the course of evolution has been shaped by the proper­ ties of the aqueous medium in which life began."

"Organisms possess extraordinary attributes, properties that distinguish them from other collections of matter. What are these distinguishing features of living organisms?"

"Biochemistry asks how the remarkable properties of living organisms arise from the thousands of different biomolecules."

"The chemistry of living organisms is organized around carbon, which accounts for more than half the dry weight of cells."