Overview
This lecture introduces biochemistry, covering its definition, history, key applications, and relevance to daily life and health.
Introduction to Biochemistry
- Biochemistry is the study of the chemical processes in living organisms.
- It explores how cells function, what they are composed of, and the chemical reactions within them.
- DNA and RNA interactions are vital to cell creation and functioning.
Historical Background
- In 1833, German physiologist Albert Juan Cole Licker used chemistry to explain cellular functions for the first time.
- The study of biochemistry has evolved to uncover how life developed and how proteins reveal evolutionary relationships.
Applications and Everyday Impact
- Biochemistry is essential in developing medicines and treatments for diseases like cancer and diabetes.
- It helps analyze environmental pollution and its effects.
- Biochemistry aids in understanding genetic diseases by analyzing human DNA.
- Research into ancient fossils helps discover the origins of life.
- Biochemistry explains the function of proteins in living cells and their roles in health (e.g., blood plasma proteins).
Areas of Biochemical Study
- Computational biology focuses on how proteins fold into functional shapes.
- Microbial genomics studies microorganisms in various environments.
- Lipidomics studies the role of fats in cells.
- Proteomics investigates protein structure, function, and expression.
- Cell signaling examines molecules controlling cell survival and death.
Relevance and Benefits of Studying Biochemistry
- Biochemistry provides insights into molecular health issues such as obesity and diabetes.
- Biochemists develop treatments for diseases like HIV/AIDS, cancer, and Lyme disease.
- Biochemical engineering supports the development of biodiesel and food additives like artificial sweeteners.
- There is overlap with molecular biology for high-resolution study of biological molecules.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Biochemistry — the science of chemical processes within and related to living organisms.
- DNA/RNA — genetic materials that store and transfer information.
- Protein — complex molecules crucial for cellular structure and function.
- Proteomics — the study of all proteins in a cell or organism.
- Cell Signaling — communication processes that control cell activities.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Visit themasterchemistry.com for additional learning resources.
- Subscribe to the indicated YouTube channel for further video lectures.