Overview
This lecture introduces biochemistry, covering its definition, historical background, scope, and practical applications in daily life and healthcare.
Introduction to Biochemistry
- Biochemistry is the study of living organisms and the chemical processes that enable life.
- It examines how cells function, their chemical makeup, and the reactions occurring within them.
- The field explains how molecules like DNA and RNA contribute to cellular processes.
Historical Background
- In 1833, Albert Juan Cole Licker was the first to use chemistry to explain cellular functions, marking a key event in biochemistry's history.
- Biochemistry has evolved to help understand proteins and the evolutionary history of organisms.
Scope & Applications
- Biochemistry supports research on diseases like cancer, diabetes, and Alzheimer's disease.
- The field is vital in developing medicines, analyzing environmental effects, and exploring the origins of life.
- Biochemists study proteins, sugars, and lipids to understand how cells store energy and grow.
Everyday Impact of Biochemistry
- Plasma proteins in blood, like albumin and antibodies, perform critical functions such as fat transport and immune defense.
- Biochemistry explains fundamental life processes such as breathing and vision through biophysics.
- Food additives like artificial sweeteners are developed through biochemical research to assist those with dietary restrictions.
Benefits & Topics in Biochemistry
- Topics include computational biology (protein folding), microbial genomics, lipidomics (cell fats), proteomics (protein study), and cell signaling.
- Understanding molecules at a detailed level helps address health issues like obesity and diabetes.
- Biochemical engineering enables advancements like biodiesel and new therapies for diseases.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Biochemistry — Study of chemical processes in living organisms.
- Protein — Large molecules essential for cell function, structure, and regulation.
- DNA/RNA — Nucleic acids involved in genetic information and protein synthesis.
- Plasma Proteins — Proteins in blood plasma, crucial for transport and immune function.
- Proteomics — Study of proteins' structure and function.
- Lipidomics — Study of cellular lipids (fats) and their roles.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Explore introductory resources on biochemistry for further reading.
- Visit themed websites or educational channels for more video lectures.