DIMS Lectures Biochemistry PDF

Kindly Scroll down for the complete pdf lecture of biochemistry.

What is Biochemistry?

Biochemistry is the study of chemical substances and vital processes occurring in living organisms. It focuses on the structure and function of cellular components such as proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, nucleic acids, and other biomolecules. Essentially, biochemistry is the game of enzymes—biological catalysts that speed up chemical reactions in the body.

Key Topics in Biochemistry

1. Enzymes: The Catalysts of Life

Enzymes are proteins that act as biological catalysts, speeding up chemical reactions without being consumed in the process. They are crucial for digestion, energy production, and countless other bodily functions. For example, Pyruvate Dehydrogenase is an enzyme complex that plays a vital role in converting pyruvate into acetyl-CoA, a key step in cellular respiration.

Enzyme Deficiency Disorders

Pyruvate Dehydrogenase Deficiency: A recessive disorder common in children, leading to lactic acidosis, hyperventilation, and vomiting. Chronic alcoholics may also experience this due to Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) deficiency.

2. Vitamins: Essential Nutrients for Health

Vitamins are organic compounds required in small amounts for various metabolic processes. Let’s explore some key vitamins and their functions:

Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin)

Functions: Acts as a coenzyme in dehydrogenase reactions and is essential for the production of FADH2 and FMN, which are crucial for energy production.
Deficiency Symptoms: Cheilosis (cracks on lips), corneal vascularization, diarrhea, and dermatitis.
Source: Broccoli, milk, and eggs.

Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid)

Functions: Essential for fatty acid synthesis and coenzyme A production.
Deficiency Symptoms: Dermatitis and adrenal insufficiency.

Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine)

Functions: Involved in amino acid metabolism, neurotransmitter synthesis, and hemoglobin production.
Deficiency Symptoms: Convulsions, peripheral neuropathy, and sideroblastic anemia.

Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)

Functions: Acts as an antioxidant, aids in iron absorption, and is essential for collagen synthesis.
Deficiency Symptoms: Scurvy, characterized by bleeding gums, weak collagen fibers, and delayed wound healing.

3. Metabolism: The Engine of Life

Metabolism refers to all the chemical reactions that occur within a living organism to maintain life. It can be divided into catabolism (breaking down molecules to release energy) and anabolism (building up molecules to store energy).

Carbohydrate Metabolism

Glycolysis: The breakdown of glucose to produce ATP, occurring in the cytoplasm.
Krebs Cycle: A series of chemical reactions used by all aerobic organisms to generate energy.
Electron Transport Chain (ETC): The final stage of cellular respiration, producing the majority of ATP.

Lipid Metabolism

Fatty Acid Oxidation: The process by which fatty acids are broken down to produce energy.
Ketogenesis: The production of ketone bodies from fatty acids, especially during fasting or low-carb diets.

Protein Metabolism

Urea Cycle: A series of reactions in the liver that convert ammonia into urea, which is excreted in urine.
Amino Acid Catabolism: The breakdown of amino acids to produce energy or synthesize new molecules.

4. Genetic Disorders and Metabolic Diseases

Biochemistry also delves into the genetic and metabolic disorders that arise from enzyme deficiencies or genetic mutations.

Glycogen Storage Diseases

Von Gierke’s Disease: Caused by a deficiency in glucose-6-phosphatase, leading to hypoglycemia and liver enlargement.
McArdle’s Disease: A muscle glycogen storage disease causing muscle cramps and myoglobinuria during exercise.