An example of analogy and simile used in popular science writing:
"The critical feature of the centromere is that it acts as a location for the binding of the protein called CENP-A (Centromeric Protein-A).
… CENP-A acts as a foundation stone….
The CENP-A acts as the essential cornerstone for the recruitment of all the other proteins that are required for the spindle apparatus to do its job. When a cell is actively dividing, over 40 proteins build up from the CENP-A . They do so in a step-wise fashion, like adding on LEGO bricks in a particular order. Immediately after the duplicated chromosomes have been pulled to the opposite ends of the cell, this big complex falls apart again….Normally, the nucleus has a membrane around it, and large protein molecules find it really difficult to get through this. When the cell is ready to separate its replicated chromosomes, this barrier breaks down temporarily and the proteins can join on to the complex at the centromere. It's like having a removal company outside your house. they are ready to shift you furniture but can't get on with the job unless you open the door and let them in."
Nessa Carey (2015) Junk DNA. A journey through the dark matter of the genome. London: Icon Books Ltd.
There are two different analogies here: Lego bricks as proteins in building up the complex; the removal company as like proteins that cannot be added to the complex whilst the nuclear membrane is in place.
Read examples of scientific analogies
There are also similes for the CENP-A protein as being like a foundation stone, or cornerstone.
Read about examples of science similes
The phrasing "molecules find it really difficult to get through" could be seen as an example of anthropomorphism, as molecules have no awareness of where they are (and have no intentions or desires regarding entering the nucleus).
Read examples of anthropomorphism in science
