What are the basics of biochemistry?/8 major principles and terminologies used in biochemistry
As you may already guess from the term, Biochemistry is a scientific field that can be considered to be somewhere between Chemistry and Biology. Biochemistry is the discipline that studies large biomolecules, chemical reactions, and mechanisms of the reactions that occur in a living organism. Moreover, it also provides evidence of essential pathways that have been responsible for the development and evolution of living organisms through time.
Biochemistry is the branch of science that deals with the chemical processes and substances that occur within living organisms. It involves the study of the chemical reactions and interactions that take place within cells, tissues, and organs, as well as the structure and function of biomolecules such as proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, and nucleic acids.
Some of the basics of biochemistry include:
1. Biomolecules: These are the building blocks of life and include proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, and nucleic acids. Each biomolecule has a specific structure and function within the cell. they are the major basics of biochemistry that comprises of any other biochemical activity.
2. Enzymes: These are proteins that catalyze chemical reactions in the cell. Enzymes lower the activation energy required for a reaction to occur, making it easier for the reaction to take place.
Enzymes are termed as biological catalyst which alters in biological reactions without been consumed, they are mostly proteins in nature.
3. Metabolism: This refers to the chemical reactions that take place within cells to convert nutrients into energy or to synthesize new biomolecules.
4. Cellular respiration: This is the process by which cells convert nutrients into energy in the form of ATP (adenosine triphosphate) through a series of chemical reactions.
5. DNA and RNA: These are nucleic acids that contain genetic information and are responsible for the transmission of genetic traits from one generation to the next.
6. Proteins: These are large biomolecules that perform a variety of functions within the cell, including structural support, enzymatic activity, and transport.
7. Carbohydrates: These are molecules that serve as a source of energy for the cell and also play a role in cell signaling and communication.
8. Lipids: These are molecules that are important for cell membrane structure and function, as well as energy storage.
These are just a few of the basics of biochemistry, and there is much more to learn about this fascinating field of study.