Biochemistries
Amino Acids in Biochemistry
The 20 standard amino acids are the building blocks of proteins. Each has unique side chain properties that determine protein structure and function.
Carbohydrate Biochemistry
Carbohydrates serve as energy sources, structural materials, and cell signaling molecules. Monosaccharides, disaccharides, and polysaccharides have diverse biological roles.
Cofactors and Coenzymes
Cofactors are non-protein molecules required for enzyme activity. They include metal ions (Zn²⁺, Mg²⁺) and organic coenzymes derived from vitamins.
Enzyme Kinetics
Enzyme kinetics studies the rates of enzyme-catalyzed reactions. Michaelis-Menten kinetics describes the relationship between substrate concentration and reaction velocity.
Key Metabolic Pathways
Metabolic pathways are interconnected series of enzyme-catalyzed reactions that convert nutrients into energy and building blocks. Key pathways include glycolysis, TCA cycle, and oxidative phosphorylation.
Lipid Biochemistry
Lipids are hydrophobic biomolecules including fatty acids, triglycerides, phospholipids, and steroids. They serve as energy stores, membrane components, and signaling molecules.
Nucleotide Biochemistry
Nucleotides are the building blocks of DNA and RNA. They also serve as energy carriers (ATP), signaling molecules (cAMP), and coenzymes.
Signal Transduction Chemistry
Signal transduction involves chemical messengers that relay signals from outside the cell to the interior. Key molecules include hormones, neurotransmitters, and second messengers.