Review of Biochemical Substances

Biochemistry is the study of the chemical processes that occur within living organisms. It is an interdisciplinary science that combines physiology, physics, mathematics, and chemistry to understand the complex mechanisms of biological systems. It is a field of research that has applications in many different areas of science, including medicine, genetics, and food science. In this review, we will look at some of the major biochemical substances and their roles in living organisms.

Proteins

Proteins are one of the most important biochemical substances in living organisms. They are involved in many different processes, including metabolism, cell signaling, and the production of enzymes. Proteins are composed of amino acids that are linked together in chains. Depending on the type of protein, the sequence of amino acids may vary. Proteins are essential for the structure and function of cells, tissues, and organs.

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates are molecules composed of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen. They are an important source of energy for living organisms and are essential for the metabolism of cells. Carbohydrates are divided into two main categories: simple and complex. Simple carbohydrates, such as glucose and fructose, are quickly digested and absorbed into the bloodstream. Complex carbohydrates, such as starch and cellulose, are broken down into simple sugars for energy.

Lipids

Lipids are molecules composed of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen. They are an important source of energy and are essential for many cellular processes. Lipids are divided into two main categories: saturated and unsaturated. Saturated lipids are solid at room temperature and are often found in animal fats. Unsaturated lipids are liquid at room temperature and are often found in plant oils.

Nucleic Acids

Nucleic acids are molecules composed of nitrogen, carbon, oxygen, phosphorus, and hydrogen. They are an essential component of all living organisms, and their role in the cell is to store and transmit genetic information. Nucleic acids are divided into two main categories: DNA and RNA. DNA is responsible for the storage and transmission of genetic information, while RNA is responsible for the translation of genetic information into proteins.

Enzymes

Enzymes are proteins that catalyze biochemical reactions in cells. They are essential for many metabolic processes and are involved in the breakdown of proteins, carbohydrates, and lipids. Enzymes are highly specific and can increase the rate of a reaction by a factor of millions.

Vitamins

Vitamins are organic compounds that are essential for life. They are involved in many metabolic processes and are necessary for the proper functioning of the body. Vitamins are divided into two main categories: fat-soluble and water-soluble. Fat-soluble vitamins are stored in the body and can be found in foods such as liver, egg yolks, and fatty fish. Water-soluble vitamins are not stored in the body and must be obtained from the diet.

Hormones

Hormones are chemical messengers that are produced by cells in the body. They are involved in many different processes, including growth, metabolism, and reproduction. Hormones are divided into two main categories: steroid hormones and non-steroid hormones. Steroid hormones, such as testosterone and estrogen, are produced in the adrenal glands and play a role in reproduction and metabolism. Non-steroid hormones, such as insulin and glucagon, are produced in the pancreas and are involved in the regulation of blood sugar levels.

Water

Water is a molecule composed of hydrogen and oxygen. It is essential for life and is involved in many different processes, including digestion, absorption, and excretion. Water is essential for the structure and function of cells and is responsible for the transport of nutrients and waste products.

Summary

Biochemistry is a fascinating field of research that has applications in many different areas of science. In this review, we have looked at some of the major biochemical substances and their roles in living organisms, including proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, nucleic acids, enzymes, vitamins, hormones, and water. Each of these substances plays an essential role in the functioning of the body and is necessary for life.