Biochemistry

Biochemistry
Biochemistry
For the students of
Pharmacy Technicians
(Category-B)
Compiled By
Syed Bilal Hussain
Lecturer
Lahore College of Pharmaceutical Sciences
Under Supervision of
Dr. Asma Razzaq
Lecturer
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Biochemistry
Dedication
To
Prof. Dr. Naim Anwar Muzaffar The Father of Pharmacy
Whose Dedications Toward Pharmacy Education Are Priceless.
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Biochemistry
Acknowledgement
I am very grateful to Ch. Muhammad Shamoon, Secretary, Punjab Pharmacy Council, Lahore, who
allowed me to compile BIOCHEMISTRY Book for the students of Pharmacy Technician.
I am very thankful to my teacher Dr. Asma Razzq who generously contributed their time and efforts to
help me make this book as accurate and as useful as possible.
Special thanks to Hafiz Muhammad Zubair, Haroon Shahzad & Dr. Sara for providing help in
composing and proof reading of the text.
Syed Bilal Hussain
Lecturer
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Biochemistry
Contents
BIOCHEMISTRY
10
WHAT IS BIOCHEMISTRY USED FOR?
10
BIOCHEMICAL PRINCIPLES
12
HYDROGEN ION CONCENTRATION
12
PH
12
BUFFER SOLUTION
12
THE COLLOIDAL STATE
12
CRYSTALLOIDS
12
COLLIGATIVE PROPERTIES OF SOLUTIONS
13
ADSORPTION
13
ION EXCHANGE RESINS
13
DIFFUSION
13
PASSIVE TRANSPORT
13
ACTIVE TRANSPORT
13
OSMOSIS
13
SEMI-PERMEABLE MEMBRANE
14
OSMOTIC PRESSURE
14
SURFACE TENSION
14
VISCOSITY
14
CARBOHYDRATES
15
GENERAL FORMULA
15
CHARACTERISTICS OF CARBOHYDRATES
15
FUNCTIONAL GROUPS OF CARBOHYDRATES
15
ALDEHYDE GROUP
16
KETO GROUP
16
SOURCE OF CARBOHYDRATES
16
OCCURRENCE OF CARBOHYDRATES
16
NATURAL PRODUCTION OF CARBOHYDRATES
16
CARBOHYDRATES MAJOR SOURCE OF ENERGY
17
HOW CARBOHYDRATES SUPPLY ENERGY
17
FUNCTION OF CARBOHYDRATES
17
SWEETNESS IN CARBOHYDRATES
18
CLASSIFICATION OF CARBOHYDRATES
18
MONOSACCHARIDE
18
CLASSIFICATION OF MONOSACCHARIDE
18
DISACCHARIDES
19
CLASSIFICATION OF DISACCHARIDES
19
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Biochemistry
HOMOGENEOUS
19
HETEROGENEOUS
19
POLYSACCHARIDES
19
CLASSIFICATION OF POLYSACCHARIDES
20
HOMOPOLYSACCHARIDES
20
HETEROPOLYSACCHARIDES
20
LIPIDS
21
CLASSIFICATION OF LIPIDS
21
SIMPLE LIPIDS
21
FATS AND OILS
21
WAXES
22
COMPOUND OR COMPLEX LIPIDS
22
GLYCOLIPIDS ALSO CALLED GLYCOSPHINGOLIPIDS
22
SULFOLIPIDS
22
PHOSPHOLIPIDS
22
LIPOPROTEINS
22
DERIVED LIPIDS
22
FUNCTIONS OF LIPIDS
23
PROTEINS
24
GENERAL FORMULA OF AMINO ACID
24
FUNCTIONS OF PROTEINS
24
STRUCTURE OF PROTEINS
25
PRIMARY STRUCTURE OF PROTEINS
25
SECONDARY STRUCTURE
25
TERTIARY STRUCTURE
25
QUATERNARY STRUCTURE
25
CLASSIFICATION OF PROTEINS
25
SIMPLE PROTEINS
26
CONJUGATED OR COMPOUND PROTEINS
26
DERIVED PROTEINS
26
AMINO ACIDS
27
STRUCTURE
27
STANDARD AMINO ACIDS
27
NON-STANDARD AMINO ACIDS
27
ESSENTIAL AMINO ACIDS
27
NON-ESSENTIAL AMINO ACIDS
28
FUNCTIONS OF AMINO ACIDS
28
NUCLEIC ACIDS
28
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Biochemistry
NUCLEOTIDES
28
COMPONENTS OF NUCLEIC ACIDS OR NUCLEOTIDES
29
TYPES AND FUNCTION OF RNA
29
MRNA OR
MESSENGER RNA
30
RRNA OR
RIBOSOMAL RNA
30
TRNA OR
TRANSFER RNA
30
FUNCTIONS OF DNA
30
HORMONES
31
ENDOCRINE SYSTEM
31
CHEMICAL MESSENGERS
31
ENDOCRINE GLANDS
31
THE MAIN ENDOCRINE GLANDS INCLUDE
31
HORMONES INTRODUCTION
32
CLASSIFICATION OF HORMONES
33
CLASSIFICATION OF HORMONES BASED ON THE SITE OF PRODUCTION/

ACCUMULATION
33
HORMONES OF PITUITARY GLANDS
33
HORMONES OF ANTERIOR PITUITARY FLANDS
33
HORMONES OF POSTERIOR PITUITARY FLANDS
33
HORMONES OF THYROID GLANDS
33
HORMONES OF PARATHYROID GLANDS
33
HORMONES OF ADRENAL GLAND
33
HORMONES OF OVARY GLAND
33
HORMONES OF TESTIS
33
HORMONE OF PANCREAS
34
CLASSIFICATION OF HORMONES BASED ON THE CHEMICAL NATURE
34
STEROID HORMONES
34
PROTEIN HORMONES
34
DERIVATIVE OF THE AMINO ACID CALLED TYROSINE
34
HORMONAL ACTIONS
34
GROWTH HORMONE (GH)
35
NORMAL FUNCTIONS OF GH
35
EFFECT ON PROTEIN METABOLISM
35
EFFECTS ON CARBOHYDRATE METABOLISM
35
EFFECTS ON FAT METABOLISM
36
EFFECTS ON INORGANIC METABOLISM
36
EFFECTS ON BONE, CARTILAGE, AND SOFT TISSUES
36
VASOPRESSIN/ ANTIDIURETIC HORMONE (ADH)
36
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Biochemistry
OXYTOCIN (OT)
36
ACTION IN FEMALES
37
ACTION IN MALES
37
INSULIN
37
EFFECTS OF INSULIN
37
EFFECTS OF INSULIN ON CARBOHYDRATE METABOLISM
37
EFFECTS OF INSULIN ON FAT METABOLISM
37
EFFECTS OF INSULIN ON PROTEIN METABOLISM
37
EFFECTS OF INSULIN ON GROWTH
38
TESTOSTERONE
38
EFFECTS OF TESTOSTERONE
38
EFFECT ON THE MALE REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM
38
EFFECTS ON SECONDARY SEX CHARACTERISTICS
38
EFFECT ON PROTEIN MMETABOLISM
38
EFFECT ON BONE
39
EFFECT ON RBCS
39
EFFECT ON ELECTROLYTE AND WATER BALANCE
39
ESTROGEN
39
ACTIONS OF ESTROGENS
39
ENZYMES
40
DEFINITIONS
40
CATALYSTS
40
SUBSTRATES
40
PROPERTIES OF ENZYMES
40
MECHANISM OF ENZYME REACTIONS
41
GENERAL REACTION
42
CHEMICAL NATURE OF ENZYME
42
CLASSIFICATION OF ENZYMES
42
OXIDOREDUCTASES
43
TRANSFERASES
43
HYDROLASES
44
LYASES
44
ISOMERASES
44
LIGASES
44
FACTOR AFFECTING ENZYME ACTIVITIES
44
FUNCTIONS OF ENZYMES
46
"LOCK AND KEY" MODEL
47
VITAMINS
48
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Biochemistry
DEFINITION
48
GENERAL PROPERTIES OF VITAMINS
48
CLASSIFICATION OF VITAMINS ON THE BASIS OF SOLUBILITY
48
FAT SOLUBLE VITAMINS
48
WATER SOLUBLE VITAMINS
48
CLASSIFICATION OF VITAMINS ON THE BASIS OF HEAT STABILITY
48
THERMO LABILE VITAMINS
48
THERMO STABLE VITAMINS
49
VITAMIN-A
49
PHYSIOLOGICAL FUNCTION
49
CLINICAL FEATURES ASSOCIATED WITH DEFICIENCY OF VITAMIN-A
50
TOXICITY OF VITAMIN-A
51
VITAMIN-D
51
FUNCTIONS OF VITAMIN D
52
EFFECT OF VITAMIN D DEFICIENCY
52
TOXICITY OF VITAMIN-D
53
VITAMIN-E
53
FUNCTIONS OF VITAMIN-E
53
EFFECT OF VITAMIN-E DEFICIENCY
54
TOXICITY OF VITAMIN-E
54
VITAMIN-K
55
FUNCTIONS OF VITAMIN-K
55
EFFECT OF VITAMIN-K DEFICIENCY
56
TOXICITY OF VITAMIN-K
56
THIAMINE
56
FUNCTIONS OF THIAMINE
57
EFFECT OF THIAMINE DEFICIENCY
57
RIBOFLAVIN
57
FUNCTIONS OF RIBOFLAVIN
58
EFFECT OF RIBOFLAVIN DEFICIENCY
58
PANTOTHENIC ACID
58
FUNCTIONS OF PANTOTHENIC ACID
58
EFFECT OF PANTOTHENIC ACID DEFICIENCY
59
NIACIN
59
FUNCTIONS OF NIACIN
59
EFFECT OF NIACIN DEFICIENCY
60
PYRIDOXAL PHOSPHATE
60
FUNCTIONS OF PYRIDOXAL PHOSPHATE
60
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Biochemistry
EFFECT OF PYRIDOXAL PHOSPHATE DEFICIENCY
61
BIOTIN
61
FUNCTIONS OF BIOTIN
61
EFFECT OF BIOTIN DEFICIENCY
61
FOLIC ACID
62
FUNCTIONS OF FOLIC ACID
62
EFFECT OF FOLIC ACID DEFICIENCY
62
ASCORBIC ACID
62
FUNCTIONS OF ASCORBIC ACID
63
EFFECT OF ASCORBIC ACID DEFICIENCY
64
CYANOCOBALAMIN
64
FUNCTIONS OF CYANOCOBALAMIN
65
EFFECT OF CYANOCOBALAMIN DEFICIENCY
65
INTRODUCTION TO BIOTECHNOLOGY
66
RED BIOTECHNOLOGY
66
GREEN BIOTECHNOLOGY
67
WHITE BIOTECHNOLOGY
67
BLUE BIOTECHNOLOGY
67
FUTURE OF BIOTECHNOLOGY
68
GENETIC ENGINEERING
69
APPLICATIONS OF GENETIC ENGINEERING
69
GENETIC ENGINEERING AND MEDICINE
69
GENETIC ENGINEERING AND RESEARCH
69
GENETIC ENGINEERING AND INDUSTRY
69
GENETIC ENGINEERING AND AGRICULTURE
70
ELECTROLYTES OF BODY
71
ELECTROLYTE BALANCE
71
ACID- BASE BALANCE:
71
BICARBONATE BUFFER SYSTEM
72
PHOSPHATE BUFFER SYSTEM
72
PROTEIN BUFFER SYSTEM
72
BIOCHEMISTRY
Biochemistry, sometimes called biological chemistry, is the study of chemical processes within
and relating to living organisms. Biochemistry deals with chemical or metabolic processes which
take place in tissue cells. These metabolic reactions take place in the material called protoplasm
which is the basis of all forms of life. As long as these reactions take place in an organized form
we remain healthy.
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Biochemistry
Much of biochemistry deals with the structures, functions and interactions of biological
macromolecules, such as proteins, nucleic acids, carbohydrates and lipids, which provide the
structure of cells and perform many of the functions associated with life.
WHAT IS BIOCHEMISTRY USED FOR?
Biochemistry is used to learn about the biological processes which take place in cells
and organisms.
Biochemistry may be used to study the properties of biological molecules, for a variety of
purposes. For example, a biochemist may study the characteristics of the keratin in hair
so that a shampoo may be developed that enhances curliness or softness.
Biochemists find uses for biomolecules. For example, a biochemist may use a certain
lipid as a food additive.
Biochemists can help cells to produce new products. Gene therapy is within the realm of
biochemistry. The development of biological machinery falls within the realm of
biochemistry.
Biochemistry has been explaining the mechanisms of many physiological processes

which were unknown in mystery.
Physiology, pharmacology, bacteriology and pathology and even therapeutics have also
greatly benefited from new discoveries in biochemistry.
Biochemistry has assumed an increasingly important role in various branches of

medicines and biochemists have frequently been called upon to provide the special
techniques and knowledge to the solution of clinical problems.
Biochemical investigations can lead quite directly to the suggestion of remedies. For
example, the discovery of specific biochemical deficiencies in rickets, pellagra, beriberi,
scurvy and pernicious anemia led rapidly to the successful therapy by a rational method.
The biochemist has provided vitamins and hormones in pure conditions and has aided in
the preparation of vaccines, antitoxins, sera, etc. the fields of enzyme inhibitors,
recombinant DNA technology, genetic engineering, gene mapping.
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Biochemistry
DNA profiling and cloning have opened a new era in medicine. Last but not the least it
has provided a large number of chemical tests as aids in the diagnosis of diseases.
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Biochemistry
BIOCHEMICAL PRINCIPLES
HYDROGEN ION CONCENTRATION
Water is most abundant substance in human body making up to 65% to 70% body mass
hydrogen bonding exists in water molecule.
Pure water is very slightly dissociated therefore called weak electrolyte. At 25c only one of every
molecule in pure water is ionized at any instant.
H2O H+ + OHPH
pH is a unit of measure which describes the degree of acidity or alkalinity of a solution. It is

measured on a scale of 0 to 14.
The term pH is derived from "p", the mathematical symbol of the negative logarithm, and "H", the
chemical symbol of Hydrogen. The formal definition of pH is the negative logarithm (or negative
log) of the Hydrogen ion activity.
pH = -log[H+]
Solutions with a pH less than 7 are said to be acidic and solutions with a pH greater than 7 are
basic or alkaline. Pure water has a pH very close to 7 and blood has a pH 7.35.
BUFFER SOLUTION
Buffer is the compound or mixture of compounds that resist to changing pH of any solution on
slight addition of acidic or basics solution or compound.
THE COLLOIDAL STATE
The word colloid means glutinous or resembling glue and was first used for solutions of certain
substances such as proteins, starch and gums which do not diffuse through most of the
membranes.
CRYSTALLOIDS
A crystallizable substance that dissolve in liquid and passes easily through membrane is called
crystalloids.
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Biochemistry
COLLIGATIVE PROPERTIES OF SOLUTIONS

Colligative properties are those which depend on the number of solute particles. The following
four changes in the colligative properties are seen as the number of particles increases in a
solution.
The osmotic pressure is increased

Boiling point is raised
Freezing point is depressed
Vapor pressure is decreased
ADSORPTION
The process by which molecules of a substance such as gas or liquid collect on the surface of
another substance such as solid is called adsorption. Or
The condensation or adhesion of a gas, vapor, liquid or dissolved substances on the surface of a
solid or liquid is called adsorption.
ION EXCHANGE RESINS
There is a very important group of substances called ion exchange resins that are widely used
for the adsorption of negatively and positively charged ions from solutions in the laboratory in
industry and in medicine. These substances are insoluble synthetic polymers of two types,
cation and anion exchange resins, which contain acidic and basic groups respectively.
DIFFUSION
Diffusion is the process in which ions or molecules move from a region of higher concentration
to a region of lower concentration.
PASSIVE TRANSPORT
Passive transport is the transport of ions or molecules across a cell membrane by diffusion.
Molecules moves from a region of high concentration to one of lower concentration. It does not
require energy for diffusion process.
ACTIVE TRANSPORT
Active transport is the transport of ions or molecules across a cell membrane from a region of
lower concentration to one of higher concentration assisted by enzymes and requiring energy.
OSMOSIS
The process by which a solvent passes from a solution of lower solute concentration to a
solution of higher solute concentration through a semi-permeable membrane.
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Biochemistry
SEMI-PERMEABLE MEMBRANE
A membrane, which is permeable to the solvent but not to the solute particles e.g. natural
membranes.
OSMOTIC PRESSURE
Osmotic pressure of a solution is defined as the equivalent to the hydrostatic pressure which is
produced when the solution is separated from a solvent by a semi-permeable membrane.
SURFACE TENSION
Surface tension is a contractive tendency of the surface of a liquid that allows it to resist an
external force. The cohesive forces among liquid molecules are responsible for the phenomenon
of surface tension.
VISCOSITY
Viscosity can be described as it is the internal resistance of the molecules of any liquid to flow
called viscosity.
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Biochemistry
CARBOHYDRATES
The definition of the carbohydrates is given as carbohydrates are polyhydroxy aldehydes or
ketones or their complex substances which on hydrolysis give polyhydroxy aldehydes or
ketones. Or
A carbohydrate is a large biological molecule, or macromolecule, consisting of carbon (C),
hydrogen (H), and oxygen (O) atoms, usually with a hydrogen, oxygen atom ratio of 2:1 (as in
water). Or
The carbohydrates are the organic compounds. They are made up of carbon, hydrogen, oxygen.
The literally meanings of carbohydrates are the hydrated carbons. Carbohydrates also called
sugar. Or
Carbohydrates are aldehyde or ketone compounds with multiple (two or more) hydroxyl groups.
(Breakdown of water molecule in any compound is called hydrolysis)
GENERAL FORMULA
As the carbohydrates are the hydrated carbons so the number of water molecules attach to the
carbon are equal in number to the no of carbon atoms.
Thus the general formula is given as Cn (H2O)n. here n is the whole number.
Exception to the general formula and definition
There are some such carbohydrates which contain nitrogen, phosphorous or sulpher in addition
to carbon.
Also all the compounds having formula Cn(H2O)n may not be carbohydrates formic acetic and
lactic acids are some examples of such compounds.
CHARACTERISTICS OF CARBOHYDRATES
In general, carbohydrates are white solids, sparingly soluble in organic liquids but except for
certain polysaccharides are soluble in water. Many carbohydrates of low molecular weight have
a sweet taste.
FUNCTIONAL GROUPS OF CARBOHYDRATES
The carbohydrates have two major categories on the basis of function group.
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Biochemistry
ALDEHYDE GROUP
CHO it is on the first carbon the carbohydrate with aldehyde group is called aldoses (aldose
sugar).
Aldehyde Group
KETO GROUP
Is on the second carbon the sugars with ketonic group are called ketoses (Keto-sugar).
Keto Group
SOURCE OF CARBOHYDRATES
Carbohydrates are the natural compounds and their basic source is plants. The chief source of
carbohydrates is the cereals (a grain used for food, e.g. wheat). Starch is the abundant in the
cereals.
The other source of carbohydrates is:
Vegetables: e.g. potato, carrot

Legumes: e.g. peanut
Fruits: both sweet and non-sweet fruits provide carbohydrates.
OCCURRENCE OF CARBOHYDRATES
Carbohydrates are the 2nd most occurring substance in nature after water. The surprising
quantity of carbohydrates can be known by considering the point that cell wall of all plants made
up of cellulose 50-80% of dry weight of plants is due to cellulose.
NATURAL PRODUCTION OF CARBOHYDRATES
The carbohydrates are prepared by the plants by the process of photosynthesis. The
photosynthesis involves the following reaction.
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Biochemistry
CARBOHYDRATES MAJOR SOURCE OF ENERGY

Carbohydrates are the macronutrients as 55% of our daily calories come from carbohydrates. 1g
of carbohydrates provides 4 cal.
When the molecules are oxidized so produced a high amount of energy this is the principle
used by carbohydrates to give energy. The process of oxidation of carbohydrates (also all other
nutrients) is called respiration.
The reaction involve in respiration
C6H12O6 + O2 --------------- CO2 + H2O +E
HOW CARBOHYDRATES SUPPLY ENERGY
The simple sugars are absorbed directly by the small intestine into blood stream. But the
disaccharide and polysaccharide do not absorbed in blood directly first convert into
monosaccharide. This bond breaking also provides energy. Then the monosaccharides are
absorbed by blood.
(Glucose stored in muscles & liver in the form of glycogen)
FUNCTION OF CARBOHYDRATES
The carbohydrates perform the following major role in the living body.
Carbohydrates are mainly utilized by the body for fulfilling the major part of the energy
needs
The main function of carbohydrate is to supply energy for the body processes. A greater
part of the energy in the diet (more than 50-80%) is supplied by carbohydrates.
Construction of body organs.
Assist body in absorption of calcium.
Helps in lowering cholesterol level.
Provides nutrients to the friendly bacteria in digestive track that help in digestion.
Balance water mineral balance.
Oligosaccharides are present in the molecule of integral protein of al cell membranes.
SWEETNESS IN CARBOHYDRATES
Carbohydrates that has lower molecular mass are sweet in taste. as the molecular mass
increases the sweetness decreases.
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Biochemistry
CLASSIFICATION OF CARBOHYDRATES
There is no single satisfactory classification of carbohydrates. One commonly described
classification is given below
1. Monosaccharide
2. Disaccharide
3. Polysaccharide
MONOSACCHARIDE
These are simple sugars which cannot be further hydrolyzed and have empirical formula
(CH2O)n, where n=3 or larger number.
Monosaccharides are the most basic units of carbohydrates. They are the simplest form of
sugar and are usually colorless, water-soluble, crystalline solids. Some monosaccharides have
a sweet taste.
Examples of monosaccharides include glucose (dextrose), fructose (levulose) and galactose.
Monosaccharides are the building blocks of disaccharides (such as sucrose) and
polysaccharides (such as cellulose and starch).
Mono=one
Saccharide=sugar
They are sweet in taste

It cannot further hydrolyse
Generally they are water soluble
Two types of functional group are present in it, Aldehyde group or Keto group
CLASSIFICATION OF MONOSACCHARIDE
Monosaccharide can be classified on the basis of functional group.
1. Aldose
2. Ketose
Monosaccharides are either aldoses (containing aldehyde group) or ketoses (containing ketone
group).
Glucose, dextrose, ribose are examples of aldose monosaccharides, while fructose is a ketoses
monosaccharide.
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Biochemistry
DISACCHARIDES
Two joined monosaccharides are called a disaccharide. Or we can say disaccharides give two
monosaccharides on hydrolysis.
Disaccharides give two monosaccharides on hydrolysis

Disaccharides occur naturally
They are less sweet than monosaccharide
They are soluble in (H2O) water
Their molecular mass greater than monosaccharide
CLASSIFICATION OF DISACCHARIDES
1. Homogeneous Disaccharides
2. Heterogeneous Disaccharides
HOMOGENEOUS
If all sugar molecules in disaccharides are same it is called homogeneous disaccharides e.g.
maltose.
HETEROGENEOUS
If all sugar molecules are different in disaccharides then it is called heterogeneous e.g. sucrose.
Examples of Disaccharides
Sucrose (table sugar): (glucose + fructose)
Lactose (milk sugar): (glucose +galactose)
Maltose (fruit sugar): (glucose + glucose)
POLYSACCHARIDES
Having more than ten sugar molecules and give disaccharides on hydrolysis and on further
hydrolysis the monosaccharides are met.
Many saccharides join to form polysaccharides

They are tasteless and not optically active
Polysaccharide serves as stores of fuel and also forms structural elements of cells
Their molecular mass greater than monosaccharide or disaccharide
CLASSIFICATION OF POLYSACCHARIDES
There are two types of polysaccharide.
1. Homopolysaccharides
2. Heteropolysaccharides
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Biochemistry
HOMOPOLYSACCHARIDES
The polysaccharides which yield one type of monosaccharide on hydrolysis is called
homopolysaccharides e.g. starch, Glycogen
HETEROPOLYSACCHARIDES
The polysaccharides which yield different types of monosaccharide on hydrolysis called
heteropolysaccharides e.g. Mucilages, Hemi cellulose
Examples of Polysaccharides
Cellulose: most abundant on earth present in cell wall of plants.

Starch: it is stored food material in plants in corns, grains etc.
Glycogen: it mainly occurs in animal muscles and liver.
Starch: it occurs in grains seeds and tubers
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Biochemistry
LIPIDS
The lipids are organic substances occurring in plant and animal tissues belong to a very
heterogeneous group of substances.
Lipids include fats, oils, waxes, steroids & defined as substances having the following
properties.
They are insoluble in water (hydrophobic) but soluble in non-polar solvents (ether,
chloroform, benzene)
Their primary building blocks are fatty acids, glycerol
In most cases they can be utilized by the living organisms
Most common lipid is fat in animals & plants
(Fatty acid = an organic acid with a long straight hydrocarbon chain and even number of carbon
atoms e.g. oleic acid, stearic acid, butyric acid)
(Glycerol = a sweet colorless or yellowish syrupy alcohol)
CLASSIFICATION OF LIPIDS
These are classified as
1. Simple Lipids
2. Compound Lipids or Complex Lipids
3. Derived Lipids
SIMPLE LIPIDS
Naturally occurring oils, fats and waxes are collectively known as simple lipids". Simple lipids
are the esters of long chain fatty acids with alcohols. Or
Simple lipids are esters of fatty acids with various alcohols. They contain mainly fatty acids and
alcohols alone.
Note: Ester is a chemical compound formed by the interaction of acid and alcohol
FATS AND OILS
These are esters of fatty acids with glycerol (Trihydroxy alcohol). Fat is also called triglyceride A
fat in liquid state called oil
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Biochemistry
WAXES
These are esters of fatty acids with long chain monohydric alcohols.
Occurrence
Waxes are wide spread in nature as secretion of certain insects as protective coating of skin e.g.
honey bee wax, fur of animals, certain animal oil & whale largely composed of waxes. Sebum is
a secretion of human skin having waxes. It helps skin to be moist and flexible.
COMPOUND OR COMPLEX LIPIDS
These are the esters of glycerol with two saturated or unsaturated fatty acids and some other
compound such as carbohydrate, amino acid, phosphoric acid or protein etc. They are also
known as complex or conjugated lipids.
(Fatty acid = an organic acid with a long straight hydrocarbon chain and even number of carbon
atoms e.g. oleic acid, stearic acid, butyric acid)
Compound or complex lipids are subdivided as follows
GLYCOLIPIDS ALSO CALLED GLYCOSPHINGOLIPIDS
These contain sphingosine, fatty acid, and a monosaccharide or an oligosaccharide unit.
SULFOLIPIDS
These contain sphingosine, fatty acids, sugar and a sulfate group.
PHOSPHOLIPIDS
These lipids contain phosphoric acid, fatty acid, nitrogenous base and alcohol.
LIPOPROTEINS
These are the macromolecular complexes of lipids with proteins.
DERIVED LIPIDS
These lipids are obtained on hydrolysis of simple and complex lipids. These lipids contain
glycerol and other alcohols. This class of lipids includes steroid hormones, ketone bodies,
hydrocarbons, fatty acids, fatty alcohols etc.
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Biochemistry
FUNCTIONS OF LIPIDS
Lipids are good source of energy.

Lipids are essential for the absorption of fat soluble vitamins like vitamin A, D, E and K.
The dietary lipids decrease gastric motility and have a high satiety (a feeling or condition
of being full after eating food) value.

Body fat gives anatomical stability to organs.
Fats are good reservoir in the body. Adipose tissue is best suited for this purpose due to
its very little water content.

Lipids exert an insulating effect on the nervous tissue.
Lipids are integral part of cell protoplasm and cell membranes.
Some lipids act as precursors of very important physiological compounds e.g. cholesterol
is precursor of steroid hormones.
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Biochemistry
PROTEINS
The proteins are extremely complicated molecules and are nitrogenous compound made up of a
variable number of amino acids joined to each other by specific type of covalent bond called
peptide bond or peptide linkage.
(Peptide Bond = A molecule consisting of two or more amino acid linked by bond between the
amino group (-NH) and carboxyl group (-CO) this bond is known as a peptide bound)
Or simple we can say that Proteins are polymers of amino acids
(Polymer = a natural or artificial substance made from many small molecules)
GENERAL FORMULA OF AMINO ACID
FUNCTIONS OF PROTEINS
Protein is termed the building block of the body. It is called this because protein is vital in
the maintenance of body tissue, including development and repair.

Protein is a major source of energy.
Protein is involved in the creation of some hormones.
Enzymes are proteins that increase the rate of chemical reactions in the body.
Protein is a major element in transportation of certain molecules. For example,
hemoglobin is a protein that transports oxygen throughout the body.

Protein is also sometimes used to store certain molecules.
Protein forms antibodies that help prevent infection, illness and disease.
Many of the hormones which regulate the chemicals and other process of the body are
also protein in nature.

Plasma proteins take part in blood coagulation and transport of substances such as
hormones, drugs, metal like iron and copper.

They perform hereditary transmission by nucleoproteins of the cell nucleus.
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Biochemistry
STRUCTURE OF PROTEINS
Each type of proteins contains a specific number of amino acids. Different kinds of proteins have
different shapes are related to their particular function in life processes. Proteins molecules have
different several different level of structure.
(Polypeptide = A molecule consisting of three or more amino acids linked together by peptide
bond is called polypeptide or polypeptide chain)
(Peptide Bond = A molecule consisting of two or more amino acid linked by bond between the
amino group (-NH) and carboxyl group (-CO) this bond is known as a peptide bond)
PRIMARY STRUCTURE OF PROTEINS
Linear sequence of Amino acids is called primary structure, in it, amino group (NH2) is on left
side and carboxylic group (COOH) is on right side
SECONDARY STRUCTURE
The folding of the polypeptide chain into a specific coiled structure held together by Hydrogen
bond is called secondary structure.
TERTIARY STRUCTURE
The tertiary structure of a protein means its over all three dimensional shape (3D). Complex
secondary structure will take on three dimensional structures, in which there is folding looping
and binding of chain including all of its secondary structure. The final shape may be a globe or
an irregular shape.
QUATERNARY STRUCTURE
When a protein molecule is made up of more than one polypeptide chains subunit, each of
which has its own primary, secondary and tertiary structure, the number as well as the
arrangement of these polypeptide subunits is called the quaternary structure.
CLASSIFICATION OF PROTEINS
Proteins are divided into three main classes
1. Simple Proteins
2. Conjugated or Compound Proteins
3. Derived Proteins
SIMPLE PROTEINS
On hydrolysis these proteins yield only amino acids or their derivatives.
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Biochemistry
CONJUGATED OR COMPOUND PROTEINS

Conjugated proteins are composed of simple proteins combined with a non-proteinous
substance. The non-proteinous substance is called prosthetic group or cofactor.
DERIVED PROTEINS
This class of proteins includes substances which are derived from simple and conjugated
proteins. We can say that these are not naturally occurring proteins and are obtained from
simple proteins by the action of enzymes and chemical agents.
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Biochemistry
AMINO ACIDS
Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins. They form protein by a biochemical bond called
peptide bond or peptide linkage. Various number of amino acid joins to one another with peptide
bond to form protein. There are twenty different kinds of amino acids but with different
combination they form different kinds of protein.
Amino acids can be used to produce energy, but their primary job is building proteins. Some
amino acids also fill non-protein-building roles, such as forming neurotransmitters and
hormones.
STRUCTURE
Amino acid has very simple structure. It contained a central alpha carbon (The carbon attached
with the functional Group is called alpha carbon). There is carboxlic acid present on one side
and an amino group on other side of alpha carbon. Hydrogen is present on alpha carbon with R
group. The R group may vary to produce different types of Amino acids.
STANDARD AMINO ACIDS

Although more than 300 naturally occurring amino acids are known but only twenty amino acids
take part in the formation of all types of proteins plant as well as animal in origin. These twenty
amino acids are called primary standard or normal amino acids.
NON-STANDARD AMINO ACIDS
The non-standard amino acids are those amino acids which do not take part in protein synthesis
but many of them play important role in the body.
ESSENTIAL AMINO ACIDS
Essential amino acids are those amino acids which are not produced by our body and must be
taken in diet.
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Biochemistry
NON-ESSENTIAL AMINO ACIDS

Non-essential amino acids are those amino acids that can be synthesized by our body.
FUNCTIONS OF AMINO ACIDS
Amino acids are building blocks of proteins
So all the functions which proteins perform are the function of amino acids
Roles and Functions of Proteins or Amino Acids
Protein is termed as the building block of the body. It is called this because protein is vital
in the maintenance of body tissue, including development and repair.

Protein is a major source of energy.
Protein is involved in the creation of some hormones.
Enzymes are proteins that increase the rate of chemical reactions in the body.
Protein is a major element in transportation of certain molecules. For example,
hemoglobin is a protein that transports oxygen throughout the body.

Protein is also sometimes used to store certain molecules.
Protein forms antibodies that help prevent infection, illness and disease.
Many of the hormones which regulate the chemicals and other process of the body are
also protein in nature.

Plasma proteins take part in blood coagulation and transport of substances such as
hormones, drugs, metal like iron and copper.

They perform hereditary transmission by nucleoproteins of the cell nucleus.
NUCLEIC ACIDS
Nucleic acids are large biological molecules, essential for all known forms of life. Nucleic acids,
which include DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) and RNA (ribonucleic acid), are made from
monomers known as nucleotides.
Two types of nucleic acids
1. DNA or Deoxyribonucleic Acid
2. RNA or Ribonucleic Acid
NUCLEOTIDES
Nucleotides are the building blocks of all nucleic acids. Each nucleotide has three components,
5-carbon sugar, a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base.
(The combination of a Nitrogen Base and 5-Carbon Sugar is called a nucleoside, when
phosphate is added to a nucleoside; the molecule is called a nucleotide).
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Biochemistry
COMPONENTS OF NUCLEIC ACIDS OR NUCLEOTIDES
Nitrogen Base (Pyrimidine or Purine)

5-Carbon Sugar or Pentose Sugar (Ribose or Deoxyribose)
Phosphate Group
Nitrogenous Bases
Purines and pyrimidines are the two categories of nitrogenous bases. Adenine and guanine are
purines. Cytosine, thymine, and uracil are pyrimidines. In DNA, the bases are adenine (A),
thymine (T), guanine (G), and cytosine (C). In RNA, the bases are adenine, thymine, uracil, and
cytosine,
Purines: These include adenine and guanine which are abbreviated as A and G
respectively.
Pyrimidines: These include cytosine, uracil, and thymine, abbreviated as C, U, and T
respectively.
5-Carbon Sugar
Two kinds of 5-carbon sugar fond in nucleic acid or nucleotides
1. Ribose
2. Deoxyribose
Both ribose and deoxyribose are 5-csrbon sugars or pentose sugar. If the sugar is ribose, the
polymer is RNA, if the sugar is Deoxyribose, the polymer is DNA.
Phosphate Group
A phosphate group consists of a central phosphorous surrounded by four oxygen (PO4).
TYPES AND FUNCTION OF RNA
There are actually several types of ribonucleic acid or RNA, but most RNA falls into one of three
categories
1. mRNA or Messenger RNA
2. rRNA or Ribosomal RNA
3. tRNA or Transfer RNA
MRNA OR
MESSENGER RNA
Messenger RNA (mRNA) carries the genetic information copied from DNA into a form that can
be read and used to make proteins. mRNA carries genetic information from the nucleus to the
cytoplasm of a cell.
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Biochemistry
RRNA OR
RIBOSOMAL RNA
rRNA is located in the cytoplasm of a cell, where ribosomes are found. rRNA directs the
translation of mRNA into proteins.
TRNA OR
TRANSFER RNA
Like rRNA, tRNA is located in the cellular cytoplasm and is involved in protein synthesis.
FUNCTIONS OF DNA
All known cellular life and some viruses contain DNA.

The main role of DNA in the cell is the long-term storage of information.
DNA contains the "programmatic instructions" for cellular activities.
DNA provides the information needed to make a new living cell by cell division.
When a cell divides, its DNA is copied and passed from one cell generation to the next
generation.
DNA control everything in the cells, the response to external agents, the regulation of
proteins, ribosome and RNA.

DNA holds the instructions for an organism's or each cells development and
reproduction and ultimately death.

DNA is vital for all living beings even plants. It is important for inheritance, coding for
proteins and the genetic instruction guide for life and its processes.
DNA carries the codes for proteins. However, the actual protein differs a lot from the
codes present on the DNA.

DNA is important in terms of heredity. It packs in all the genetic information and passes it
on to the next generation. The basis for this lies in the fact that DNA makes genes and
genes make chromosomes.

DNA contains the genetic information that gives rise to the chemical and physical
properties of living organisms.

Apart from coding for proteins, DNA also replicates. This helps in a variety of functions
including reproduction to maintenance and growth of cells, tissues and body systems.
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Biochemistry
HORMONES
All the physiological activities are regulated by two major systems in the body
1. Nervous System
2. Endocrine System
These two systems interact with one another and regulate the body functions.
ENDOCRINE SYSTEM
The endocrine system is the system of glands, each of which secretes different types of
hormone directly into the bloodstream to regulate the body. The endocrine system does not
include exocrine glands such as salivary glands, sweat glands and glands within the
gastrointestinal tract.
CHEMICAL MESSENGERS
The chemical messengers are the substances involved in cell signaling, these messengers are
mainly secreted form endocrine glands.
Some chemical messengers are secreted by nerve endings and the cells of several other
tissues. Generally the chemical messengers are classified into two types
Classical Hormones
Local Hormones
(Classical hormones secreted by endocrine glands)
(Local hormones secreted from other tissues)
ENDOCRINE GLANDS
Endocrine glands are glands, which synthesize and release the classical hormones into the
blood. The endocrine glands are also called ductless glands because the hormones secreted by
them are released directly into the blood without any duct.
These hormones are transported by blood to the target organs or tissues in different parts of the
body where the actions are executed.
THE MAIN ENDOCRINE GLANDS INCLUDE
Pineal gland
Pituitary gland
Thyroid gland
Parathyroid gland
Adrenal gland
Pancreas
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Biochemistry
Ovaries (in female only)
Testes (in male only)
HORMONES INTRODUCTION
These are chemical substances released by a cell or a gland into the bloodstream and
have a physiological control effect on other cells of the body.
Some important hormones are growth hormone (GH), Testosterone, Estrogen,

Progesterone, Oxytocin, Calcitonin, Aldosterone, Cortisol, and Insulin. Or
Hormones are the chemical messengers of the body. They are defined as organic
substances secreted into blood stream to control the metabolic and biological activities.
These hormones are involved in transmission of information from one tissue to another
and from cell to cell.
These substances are produced in small amounts by various endocrine (ductless)

glands in the body. They are delivered directly to the blood in minute quantities and are
carried by the blood to various target organs where these exert physiological effect and
control metabolic activities. Thus frequently their site of action is away from their origin.
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Biochemistry
CLASSIFICATION OF HORMONES
1. Based on the site of production/ accumulation

2. Based on the chemical nature
CLASSIFICATION OF HORMONES BASED ON THE SITE OF PRODUCTION/ ACCUMULATION
HORMONES OF PITUITARY GLANDS
HORMONES OF ANTERIOR PITUITARY FLANDS
Growth hormone
Thyroid stimulating hormone
HORMONES OF POSTERIOR PITUITARY FLANDS
Oxytocin hormone
Antidiuretic hormone (ADH)
HORMONES OF THYROID GLANDS
Tri-iodothyronine (T3)
Tetraiodothyronine (T4)
Calcitonin
HORMONES OF PARATHYROID GLANDS
Parathormone (PTH)
HORMONES OF ADRENAL GLAND
Aldosterone hormone
Cortisol hormone
HORMONES OF OVARY GLAND
Estrogen hormone
Progesterone hormone
HORMONES OF TESTIS
Testosterone hormone
Dihydrotestosterone hormone
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Biochemistry
HORMONE OF PANCREAS
Insulin
CLASSIFICATION OF HORMONES BASED ON THE CHEMICAL NATURE
Chemically, most hormones belong to one of three major groups
1. Steroid Hormones
2. Protein Hormones
3. Derivative of the Amino Acid Called Tyrosine
STEROID HORMONES
These are hormones formed from cholesterol or its derivatives, e.g. testosterone,
aldosteron, estrogen, progesterone.
Steroid hormones help control metabolism, inflammation, immune functions, salt and
water balance, development of sexual characteristics.
PROTEIN HORMONES
These are large or small peptide, e.g. growth hormone, oxytocin, insulin. Several
important peptide hormones are secreted from the pituitary gland.
DERIVATIVE OF THE AMINO ACID CALLED TYROSINE
These are derivatives of amino acid, e.g. dopamine, adrenaline.
HORMONAL ACTIONS
Hormone does not act directly on the cellular structures. First the hormone combine with
transmembrane (transmembrane existing or occurring across a cell membrane)
receptors present on the target cells and forms a hormone-recapture complex. This
hormone-receptor complex induces various changes or reactions in the target cells.
The hormones receptors are situated either in cell membrane, cytoplasm or nucleus of
the cells.
Cell Membrane
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Biochemistry
Receptors of protein hormones are situated in the cell membrane.
Cytoplasm
Receptors of steroid hormones are situated in cytoplasm of target cells.
Nucleus
Receptors of the thyroid hormones are in the nucleus of the cell.
Generally when a hormone is secreted in excess, the number of receptors of that

hormone decreases this process is called down-regulation. During the deficiency of
hormones, the number of receptors increases which is called up-regulation.
Proteins and peptides cannot enter the cell and so act via cell membrane receptors,
producing their effects by 'second messengers', which are activated in the cell as soon
as the hormone binds to the receptor. Thus peptide hormones can produce quite rapid
responses. Steroid and thyroid hormones, by contrast, can enter the cell and bind to
intracellular receptors, producing their effects by stimulating the production of new
proteins. There is therefore a relatively long lag period before the response to these
hormones is seen.
GROWTH HORMONE (GH)
Growth hormone (GH) is a peptide hormone that stimulates growth, cell reproduction and
regeneration in humans and other animals. Growth hormone is a 191-amino acid, singlechain polypeptide that is synthesized, stored, and secreted by anterior pituitary gland. Its
half life is about 20 minutes.
NORMAL FUNCTIONS OF GH
Effects of growth hormone on the tissues of the body can generally be described as
anabolic (building up). Like most other protein hormones, GH acts by interacting with a
specific receptor on the surface of cells. Increased height during childhood is the most
widely known effect of GH.
EFFECT ON PROTEIN METABOLISM
Growth hormone has predominately anabolic effects on skeletal and cardiac muscles. It
stimulates the synthesis of protein, RNA, DNA.
It promotes amino acid entry into cells.

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Biochemistry
It decreases the catabolism of protein because growth hormone mobilizes free fatty
acids to supply energy.
EFFECTS ON CARBOHYDRATE METABOLISM
Growth hormone is one of an important chemical substance that maintains blood glucose
within a normal range. Growth hormone is often said to have anti-insulin activity
EFFECTS ON FAT METABOLISM
Growth hormone enhances the utilization of fat by stimulating triglyceride breakdown and
oxidation in adipose tissues.
EFFECTS ON INORGANIC METABOLISM
Growth hormone increases the retention of the phosphorus and calcium. It also causes
the retention of sodium, potassium, and magnesium.
EFFECTS ON BONE, CARTILAGE, AND SOFT TISSUES
It acts on cartilage and bone to stimulate the growth.

It increases the deposition of connective tissue.
It increases the thickness of skin.
It increases the growth of important organs of the body like liver and kidney etc.
It increases milk secretion in lactating animals.
VASOPRESSIN/ ANTIDIURETIC HORMONE (ADH)
The Antidiuretic hormone is the hormone of the posterior pituitary gland. It prevents
excessive urine production. ADH is a polypeptide, containing 9 amino acids. Its half life is
18-20 minutes.
Vasopressin is responsible for regulating the body's retention of water by acting to

increase water absorption in the collecting ducts of the kidney nephron.
It increases the permeability of the collecting tubules and ducts to water, increasing
water absorption from the lumen of the collecting tubules and ducts.
ADH can also raise blood pressure by bringing about constriction of arterioles. It causes
the contraction of all smooth muscles in the body such as the GIT, Bile Duct, and Uterus.
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Biochemistry
OXYTOCIN (OT)
Oxytocin (OT) is traditionally thought of as a female hormone due to its role in milk
ejection. However, OT is recognized as having roles in male reproduction. It is secreted
in both males and females. Oxytocin is best known for its roles in sexual reproduction, in
particular during and after childbirth.
This is a hormone of the posterior pituitary gland. It is polypeptide containing 8 amino

acids. Its half-life is about 6 minutes.
ACTION IN FEMALES
In females, oxytocin acts on mammary glands and uterus. It causes ejection of milk from
the mammary glands.
Oxytocin causes contraction of uterus and helps in the expulsion of fetus. It is released in
large quantity just prior to delivery.
ACTION IN MALES
In male, the release of oxytocin increases during ejaculation. It facilitates release of

sperm into urethra by causing contraction of smooth muscles fibers in reproductive tract.
INSULIN
Insulin is a peptide hormone, produced by beta cells of the pancreas, which acts to lower
the blood glucose level, regulating carbohydrate and fat metabolism in the body.
Chemical Nature
Insulin is small soluble protein containing 51 amino acids.
EFFECTS OF INSULIN
EFFECTS OF INSULIN ON CARBOHYDRATE METABOLISM
It increases the entry of glucose into cells by stimulating the process of facilitated
diffusion, especially in muscles, adipose tissue, the heart, smooth muscles, of the uterus
by activating glucokinase. But on the other hand insulin does not facilitate glucose entry
into the brain and RBCs.

It increases utilization of glucose for energy.
It increases glycogen storage in cells
It increases the conversion of glucose into fat to be stored in adipose tissues.
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Biochemistry
EFFECTS OF INSULIN ON FAT METABOLISM
Insulin forms fatty acids from excess liver glucose.

Fatty acids are utilized from triglycerides which are stored in adipose tissues.
It inhibits hydrolysis of triglycerides in fat cells by inhibiting hormone sensitive lipase.
EFFECTS OF INSULIN ON PROTEIN METABOLISM
It causes active transport of amino acids into cells.

It promotes translation of mRNA in ribosomes to form new proteins.
It promotes transcription of DNA in nucleus to form mRNA.
It inhibits protein catabolism.
EFFECTS OF INSULIN ON GROWTH
Insulin is essential for growth as it increases protein formation.
TESTOSTERONE
This is the principle hormone of the testes which consists of 19 carbon atoms. It is
responsible for the proper development of male sexual characteristics. Testosterone is
also important for maintaining muscle bulk, adequate levels of red blood cells, bone
growth, a sense of well-being, and sexual function.
Nature
Steroid in nature
EFFECTS OF TESTOSTERONE
EFFECT ON THE MALE REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM
During intrauterine life, testosterone is secreted by the genital ridge. Later on it is

secreted by the placenta. At this stage it causes the development of male sex organs
including the penis, scrotum prostate, seminal vesicle, and male genital duct.
This hormone also causes descent of the testes (during last 2 months of gestation) and
suppresses the formation of female genital organs.This hormone causes the
enlargement of the male sexual organs. It acts on different male sex organs, increasing
spermatogenesis and maintaining the motility and fertilizing power of sperm.
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Biochemistry
EFFECTS ON SECONDARY SEX CHARACTERISTICS
The effects of testosterone on secondary sex characteristics are as follow. Growth of

hairs on the face, chest, and pubis are increases, while decreased on top of the head,
voice becomes deeper. Testosterone causes thickness of the skin, roughness of the
subcutaneous tissue. Testosterone is also responsible for aggressive moods, active
attitudes and interest in the opposite sex.
EFFECT ON PROTEIN MMETABOLISM
It increases protein synthesis and build up the musculature.

Causes positive N- balance.
Decreases blood urea levels.
EFFECT ON BONE
Increases thickness of bones

Increases total quantity of bone matrices.
Increases the deposition of calcium salts in bones.
Narrows the length of the male pelvis outlet.
Increases the length of the male pelvis and makes it funnel shaped.
Increases the strength of the pelvis and makes it strong.
EFFECT ON RBCS
Testosterone increases the number of RBCs (15-20%). However this difference may be
due to the increased metabolic rate following testosterone administration rather than to a
direct effect of testosterone on RBC production.
EFFECT ON ELECTROLYTE AND WATER BALANCE
Testosterone can increase the reabsorption of NA+ and water in the distal tubules of the
kidneys. This effect of testosterone is of a minor degree.
ESTROGEN
Estrogen is a group of hormones that play an important role in the normal sexual and
reproductive development in women. They are also called sex hormones. The woman's
ovaries produce most estrogen hormones, although the adrenal glands also produce
small amounts of the hormones.
Nature
An 18 carbon steroid
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Biochemistry
ACTIONS OF ESTROGENS
Increases the size of the vagina

Increases the size of the uterus
Causes growth of the uterine glands
Causes enlargement of the musculature of the walls of the vagina
Increases the size of the llitoris and labia minora
Promotes the development of the tubular duct system
Increases vascularity of the skin. Causes softness and smoothness of the skin (This is
why estrogen is used in creams, soaps and oils for cosmetic purposes)
The larynx of a female retains its prepubertal, so size the voice remains high pitched
Causes broadness of the pelvis
Increases the synthesis and deposition of proteins
Increases the synthesis of fat
Increases the deposition of fat in subcutaneous tissue especially the breasts medial side
of the thigh and buttocks

It increases the retention of Na+ and water increasing the E.C.F.
This hormone is responsible for the proliferative phase of the menstrual cycle
Decreases blood cholesterol levels
ENZYMES
DEFINITIONS
Enzymes are biological molecules that catalyze chemical reactions.
Enzymes are important group of bio-molecules synthesized by the living cells. They are
catalysts of biological systems, colloidal, thermo-labile and protein in nature.
CATALYSTS
A catalyst is an agent, which in minute amount increases the velocity of a reaction

without appearing in the final product of the reaction.
SUBSTRATES
Substances on which enzymes act to convert them into products are called substrates.
PROPERTIES OF ENZYMES
Catalytic property
Enzymatic property
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Biochemistry
Solubility
pH
Temperature
Specificity
Protein nature
Catalytic Property
Small amount of enzyme can catalyze the large amount of substrate in biological
reactions.
Enzymatic Property
The velocity of the enzymatic reaction increase as the concentration of the substrate
increases up to certain maximum. But after certain period of time it decreases.
Solubility
Enzymes are mostly soluble in water and diluted alcohol solution. The enzymes can
precipitate in concentrated Alcohol, Ammonium Sulphate, Tricholoro Acetic Acid.
pH
Acid:
Acid deactivates those enzymes that act at alkaline pH, e.g Trypsin. At acidic pH, it will
destroy, (Trypsin is very important enzyme that secreted by Pancreas and very important
for proper digestion of food).
Base:
Base deactivates the enzymes that act at acidic pH, e.g. Pepsin, at alkaline pH, it will
destroy.
Temperature
Optimum temperature for enzymatic activity is 35 o C to 40o C.
At 0 o C
inactive
At 10 o C to 20 o C
very little active
At 35 o C to 40 o C
max. Active
At 50 o C
inactive
At 60 o C
destroy
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Biochemistry
In solid condition, it may be stable up to 100 o C.
Specificity
Enzymes are usually very specific as to which reactions they catalyze and the substrates
that are involved in these reactions.
Protein Nature
In general with the exception of Ribozymes, which are few RNA molecules with
enzymatic activities all enzymes are protein in nature with large molecular weight.
MECHANISM OF ENZYME REACTIONS
The three dimensional structure of enzyme permits them to recognize their substrates in
a specific manner.
According to the most acceptable hypothesis, the enzyme molecule (E) first combine
with a substrate (S) to form a enzyme-substrate complex (ES) which further dissociate to
form product (P) and enzyme (E) back.
Enzyme once dissociated from the complex is free to combine with another molecule of
substrate and form product in a similar way.
GENERAL REACTION
E + S ES EP E + P
CHEMICAL NATURE OF ENZYME
In general, with the exception of Ribozymes which are few RNA molecules with
enzymatic activity, all the enzymes are either pure proteins (simple protein) or contain
protein as essential components (conjugated protein).
Few enzymes are simple proteins while some are conjugated proteins. In such enzymes
(conjugated protein) the non-protein part is called prosthetic group or coenzyme and the
protein part is called apoenzyme.
(The complete structure of apoenzyme and prosthetic group is called holoenzyme)
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Biochemistry
Holoenzyme = apoenzyme (protein part) + coenzyme (non-protein part/ prosthetic

group)
Certain enzymes with only one polypeptide chain in their structure are called monomeric
enzyme e.g. Ribonuclease, several enzymes possess more than one polypeptide chain
and are called oligomeric enzymes e.g. Lactate Dehydrogenase.
(Polypeptide = a condensation of amino acids that forms a protein molecule, or a

molecule consisting of three or more amino acid linked together by peptide bonds.)
Coenzyme
Certain enzymes require a specific thermostable, low molecular weight, non-protein

organic substances called coenzymes. A coenzyme may bind covalently or noncovalently to the apoenzyme. The term prosthetic group denotes a covalently bonded
enzyme.
CLASSIFICATION OF ENZYMES
Enzymes are generally named after adding the suffix ase to the name of the substrate,
e.g. enzymes acting on nucleic acid are known as nuclease. Even-though few
exceptions such as Trypsin, Pepsin, and Chymotrypsin are still in use. Further, few
enzymes exist in their inactive forms and called as Proenzymes or Zymogens e.g.
Pepsin has Pepsinogen as its zymogen.
There are six main classes of enzymes
1. Oxidoreductases
2. Transferases
3. Hydrolases
4. Lyases
5. Isomerases
6. Ligases
(Catch words to remember the classification of enzymes = OTH-LIL)
OXIDOREDUCTASES
These enzymes catalyze oxidation-reduction reactions, e.g. Alcohol dehydrogenase,

Lactate dehydrogenase.
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Biochemistry
This group is further divided into six-subgroups
Oxidases
Reductases
Aerobic Dehydrogenases
Anaerobic Dehydrogenases
Hydroperoxidases
Oxygenases
TRANSFERASES
Enzymes that catalyze the transfer of a functional group (e.g., a methyl or phosphate
group) from one molecule (called the donor) to another (called the acceptor).
For example, an enzyme that catalyzes this reaction would be a transferase
AX + B A + BX
In this example, A would be the donor, and B would be the acceptor. The donor is often a
coenzyme.
There are many types of transferases, some important are
Transaminases
Phosphotransferases
Transmethylases
Transpeptideases
HYDROLASES
These enzymes catalyze hydrolysis, e.g Pepsin, Trypsin
They have many subgroups some important are
Carbohydrases
Aminohydrolases
Lipids Hydrolyzing Enzymes

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Biochemistry
LYASES
Enzymes that facilitate removal of small molecules from a large substrate, e.g. Histidine
Decarboxylase, Carbonic Anhydrase.
ISOMERASES
Enzymes involved in isomerization of substrate, e.g. Retinal Isomerase.
LIGASES
Enzymes involve in joining together two substrates, e.g. RNA synthetase, Glutamine
Synthetase.
FACTOR AFFECTING ENZYME ACTIVITIES
Following factors affect enzyme activities
Enzyme concentration
Effect of pH
Substrate concentration
Effect of activator and coenzyme
Product concentration
Effect of inhibitors
Effect of temperature
Effect of time
Enzyme Concentration
The rate of reaction is directly proportional to the amount of enzyme present.
Substrate Concentration
The rate of reaction is directly proportional to the substrate concentration. However this is
true up to a certain concentration of substrate.
Product Concentration
Excess of product may lower the enzymatic reaction by occupying the active site of the
enzyme. It is also possible that, certain conditions, on high concentration of products a reverse
reaction may be favored forming back the substrate.
Effect of Temperature
Optimum temperature for enzymatic activity is 35 o C to 40o C.

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Biochemistry
At 0 o C
inactive
At 10 o C to 20 o C
very little active
At 35 o C to 40 o C
max. Active
At 50 o C
inactive
At 60 o C
destroy
In solid condition, it may be stable up to 100
C. some plant enzymes act best at
temperature around 60 o C.
Effect of pH
Optimum pH is required for the proper function of enzyme
Acid:
Acid deactivates those enzymes that act at alkaline pH, e.g Trypsin. At acidic pH, it will
destroy, (Trypsin is very important enzyme that secreted by Pancreas and very important for
proper digestion of food).
Base:
Base deactivates the enzymes that act at acidic pH, e.g. Pepsin, at alkaline pH, it will
destroy.
Effect of Activator and Coenzyme
The activity of certain enzymes is greatly dependent of activators and coenzymes.
Effect of Inhibitors
Enzymes are protein and they can be inactivated by the agents that denature them. The
chemical substances which inactive the enzymes are called as inhibitors and the process is
called enzyme inhibition. Certain substances inhibit the enzyme activities.
Effect of Time
The time required for completion of an enzyme reaction increase if the optimum
temperature and pH is not present.
FUNCTIONS OF ENZYMES
Enzyme plays a vital role in our daily life. They perform following important functions.
Decrease in activation energy
Digestion
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Biochemistry
Cheese making
Curing of diseases
Sweetener
Blood clotting
As detergent
Alcoholic beverages
As drug
Meat tenderizing
For cancer treatment
Decrease in Activation Energy
Enzymes decrease activation energy.
Digestion
Enzymes play important role in digestion for the conversion of large complex and non-
diffusible molecules into smaller, simple and diffusible molecules, e.g. Trypsin, Lipase,
Amylase.
Cheese Making
Enzymes are also used in the manufacturing of cheese.
Sweetener
Some enzymes are used as sweetener,
E.g. Sucrose (glucosidase enzyme) Glucose + Fructose
Glucose is 72% sweeter while fructose is 132% sweeter than sucrose.
As Detergent
Carbohydrate and protein breaking enzymes are heat stabilizer and are used as detergent,
e.g. Proteases
As Drug
Some enzymes are used as drugs if there is any disturbance in the digestive system.
For Cancer Treatment
Some enzymes are used for cancer treatment, e.g. L. Asparginase
Curing of Diseases
Enzymes are also play important role in curing of diseases such as rickets and jaundice,
for heart problem Lactate Dehydrogenase, and for liver problem certain Kinases are used.
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Biochemistry
Blood Clotting
Enzymes also cause blood clotting by protein thrombin.
Alcoholic Beverages
Amylase is used in manufacturing of alcoholic beverages.
Meat Tenderizing
Trypsin, Pepsin and Papain are meat tenderizing to facilitate the process of digestion.
"LOCK AND KEY" MODEL
The specific action of an enzyme with a single substrate can be explained using a Lock
and Key model. Enzymes are very specific, and it was suggested by chemist that this was
because both the enzyme and the substrate possess specific complementary geometric
shapes that fit exactly into one another. This is often referred to as "the lock and key" model.
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Biochemistry
VITAMINS
DEFINITION
A vitamin is defined as naturally occurring essential organic constituents of the diet which in
minute amount aids in maintaining the normal metabolic activities of the tissues.
GENERAL PROPERTIES OF VITAMINS
Vitamins are complex organic substances

The molecular weight is low
Essential vitamins for one species may not be essential for another
Some vitamins are synthesized in the body
Vitamins are not destroyed in the digestive processes and are absorbed as such
The daily requirement for any vitamin is increased during growth pregnancy and lactation
CLASSIFICATION OF VITAMINS ON THE BASIS OF SOLUBILITY
Based on their solubility, vitamins are classified into fat soluble vitamins and water soluble
vitamins
FAT SOLUBLE VITAMINS
Vitamin A
Vitamin D
Vitamin E
Vitamin K
WATER SOLUBLE VITAMINS
Vitamin C
Vitamin B complex
CLASSIFICATION OF VITAMINS ON THE BASIS OF HEAT STABILITY
Based on the heat stability, vitamins are classified into thermo labile vitamins and thermo
stable vitamins
THERMO LABILE VITAMINS
Thiamine (VitaminB1)
Antithetic Acid (Vitamin B3)
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Biochemistry
THERMO STABLE VITAMINS
Riboflavin (VitaminB2)
Pyridoxine (VitaminB6)
Niacin / Niacinamide (VitaminB3)
Biotin (VitaminB7)
Folic Acid (VitaminB9)
Cobalamin VitaminB12)
VITAMIN-A
Vitamin-A is a fat soluble vitamin, it is a complex alcohol and is now a day called retinol. Its
derivatives called retinal or retin-aldehyde.
Synonyms
Retinol
Retinal
Retinoic Acid
Chemistry of Vitamin-A
1. The precursor provitamin A is the carotenoid pigments of certain plant known
chemically as carotene.
2. Vitamin A is a complex alcohol found in following two forms
Vitamin-A1
Vitamin- A2
Source
Animal: Fish liver oil, milk, butter, egg yolk, kidney and muscles etc.
Plant: They are the sources of provitamin-A as Carotene e.g. (yellow/ red colored
vegetable like carrot, corn, apricot, sweet potato, tomatoes, etc.
PHYSIOLOGICAL FUNCTION
Eyes
Vitamin-A is actively involved in the maintenance of normal visual process of eyes serious
problem of the vision and eyes are found in various degrees of deficiencies of Vitamin-A like
night blindness. Vitamin-A participates both in dark/light vision as well as in color vision
Reproduction
Retinol and Retinal forms of Vitamin-A are concerned with the normal reproduction. In male
they facilitate the process of spermatogenesis. In female they prevent fatal resorption.
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Biochemistry
Epithelial Tissues
Vitamin-A is appeared to be the essential factor for maintenance of normal healthy
epithelial surfaces. Several changes have been observed especially to epithelial linings of
salivary glands, tongue, pharynx, mouth and respiratory tract in its deficiency.
Bones and Teeth
It is essential for the normal growth and Development of bones and teeth.
Carbohydrate Metabolism
Various experiments on animals have done that Vitamin-A is engaged in conversion of
sugar into glycogen.
Prevention of Infections
By keeping body surfaces/lining healthy been said as A infective vitamin.
Miscellaneous Functions
Involved in protein synthesis

Involved in nucleic acid metabolism
CLINICAL FEATURES ASSOCIATED WITH DEFICIENCY OF VITAMIN-A
Eyes
Xerophthalmia
Xerophthalmia caused by a severe Vitamin-A deficiency. Xerophthalmia is a medical
condition in which the eye fails to produce tears.
Keratinizing Metaplasia
Keratinizing metaplasia is a condition affecting the epithelial surfaces of cornea and
conjunctiva. It is caused by a dietary deficiency of Vitamin-A
Keratomalacia
Keratomalacia is an eye disorder that results from Vitamin-A deficiency. Vitamin-A is
required to maintain specialized epithelia (such as in the cornea and conjunctiva)
Epithelial Tissues
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Biochemistry
Various epithelial linings of the body are affected they become dry. Keratinized and
stratified. Nasal passage, respiratory tract, oral cavity and uro-genital tract are usually affected.
Skin
Skin become dry, scaly and thick keratinized
Miscellaneous
Increased chances of stone formation in urinary tract

Increased chances of infections especially in oral cavity, nasal, sinuses, and respiratory
passage
Generalized growth failure
Delayed Dentition
Malformation of teeth and bones
TOXICITY OF VITAMIN-A
Acute: headache, nausea and vomiting

Chronic: dry skin, cracking of lips, bone pain, fragility, brittle nails, hair loss, gingivitis
and portal hypertension.
VITAMIN-D
Vitamin-D is a fat soluble vitamin that enhances the absorption of calcium and phosphorus
from the intestine. Its deficiency may cause rickets in children and osteomalacia (softening of
the bones) in adults.
Synonyms
Calciferol
Ergosterol (D2)
Anti-ricketic vitamin.
Chemistry of Vitamin-D
These are sterols which are precursor of Vitamin-D. There are about 10 compounds of
Vitamin-D and are named as D1, D2, D3, D4, D5, D6, D7, D8, D9, and D10, out of these only 2
have anti-ricketic property e.g. Ergosterol and Calciferol Vitamin-D2 is of vegetable and
Vitamin-D3 is of animal sources.
Source
- 52 -
Biochemistry
Vitamin-D is not well distributed in nature. The few rich sources are Liver, viscera of fish,
liver of the animals which feed fish, eggs, butter, fortified milk, halibut liver oil, cod liver oil.
Vitamin-D formed in the skin of human beings by ultraviolet-rays.
FUNCTIONS OF VITAMIN D
Absorption of Calcium in Gut
Vitamin D promotes the Ca++ absorption from the intestine
Phosphate Absorption
Intestinal absorption of phosphate is increased by Vitamin-D.
Growth of Bones
Promote endochondral growth of long bones. It ensures that Ca++ is deposited in the
bones.
Parathyroid Activity
Activity of parathyroid hormone is exhibited only in the presence of Vitamin-D
Teeth
Vitamin-D helps in normal teeth formation if Vitamin-D is lacking malformation of teeth
occurs such as
Cavity formation
Hypoplastic teeth
Defective enamel &dentine formation
EFFECT OF VITAMIN D DEFICIENCY
Deficiency of Vitamin-D may cause rickets in children and Osteomalacia in adults.
Rickets
It is a disease primarily due to deficiency of dietary intake of Vitamin-D, but an inadequate
supply of calcium, phosphorus and sunlight may also play a part in it.
The deficiency of Vitamin-D results in a lowered plasma calcium level, which stimulates the
secretion of parathyroid hormone (PTH), which acts to restore the plasma calcium at the
expense of bone calcium.
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Biochemistry
Osteomalacia
Osteomalacia is the softening of the bones caused by defective bone mineralization,
secondary to inadequate amounts of available phosphorus and calcium. The most common
cause of the disease is a deficiency in Vitamin-D, which is normally obtained from the diet
and/or from sunlight exposure.
TOXICITY OF VITAMIN-D
Too much Vitamin-D can cause an abnormally high blood calcium level, which could result
in nausea, constipation, confusion, abnormal heart rhythm, and even kidney stones.
VITAMIN-E
Vitamin-E is a fat soluble vitamin; it is most important vitamin to maintain the normal
process of reproduction.
Synonyms
Tocopherol
Anti sterility factor
Anti oxidant factor
Chemistry of Vitamin-E
Fat soluble and heat stable vitamin

Alpha- Tocopherol is the most active form of Vitamin-E.
These are all methyl derivatives of compound Tocol.
It is acid stable alkali and oxidation labile.
Source
Animal: Egg yolk, milk (Human milk contains more than Cows milk) liver, cheese, butter
etc.
Plant: Cotton seed oil, peanut oil etc
FUNCTIONS OF VITAMIN-E
Anti- Oxidant
Vitamin-E is a strong anti-oxidant. It provides protection against diseases such as cancer
and cardiovascular diseases.
Act as Co-Enzyme
In certain tissues, it acts as co enzyme.

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Biochemistry
DNA Synthesis
It controls the rate of synthesis of DNA.
Muscles
It is essential for the normal functions of muscles
Care of RBCs
Vitamin-E looks after RBCs and prevents them from haemolysis (breakdown of RBCs)
Act as Activator
Vitamin-E acts as activation for enzyme system
Reproduction
It is necessary for normal process of reproduction. It keeps the layers of the embryo
healthy and is useful in prevention of habitual abortion.
Act as Drug
Vitamin-E is used in angina pectoris and in coronary insufficiency.
EFFECT OF VITAMIN-E DEFICIENCY
Vitamin-E deficiency is rare and is almost never caused by a poor diet. The deficiency of
Vitamin-E may cause following disorders.
Rupture (bursting) of RBCs membrane due to increased lipid per oxidation

Its deficiency can cause edema (abnormal accumulation of fluid in the tissues) especially
in new born.
Vitamin-E deficiency causes neurological problems due to poor nerve conduction.
Signs of Vitamin-E deficiency include neuromuscular problems
Reproduction failure
In male, testicular dystrophy and defective spermatogenesis.
In Female, infertility due to abnormalities in menstrual cycle. (resorption of fetus)
Abortion
Liver necrosis
Premature infants. Growth and development retardation.
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Biochemistry
TOXICITY OF VITAMIN-E
Most studies have shown that Vitamin-E has not toxic effects. However, high doses of
Vitamin-E increase the risk of bleeding. Vitamin-E reduces the bloods ability to form clots after
a cut or injury. High doses of Vitamin-E may also cause serious bleeding in the brain.
VITAMIN-K
Vitamin-K is a fat soluble. The name K stands for coagulation vitamin, a substance that
prevent hemorrhagic tendency
Synonyms
Anti-Hemorrhagic vitamin
Coagulation vitamin
Chemistry of Vitamin-K
Fat soluble and heat stable

Chemically there are three forms of Vitamin-K
Vitamin-K1 is Plant Origin
Vitamin-K2 Bacterial Origin
Vitamin-K3 Synthetically Preparation
Sources
Plant: Green leafy vegetables such as Alfalfa, Spinach, Cauliflower, Cabbage, Tomato,
Soybeans etc.
Animals: Fish, meat, milk, egg yolk, Endogenous synthesis, by intestinal bacteria
FUNCTIONS OF VITAMIN-K
Blood Clot Formation
Prothrombin Formation
The most important function of Vitamin-K is that it helps in the formation of prothrombin by
liver.
(prothrombin is a plasma protein produced in the liver in the presence of Vitamin-K)
Respiratory Mechanism
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Biochemistry
Vitamin-K is an essential component of respiratory mechanism of cells. In plants, Vitamin-K
is an essential component of photosynthetic process.
Healthy Bones
Vitamin-K2 plays an important role in bone formation. It is also involved in the prevention of
bone loss. Vitamin-K modifies the protein osteocalcin.
Cell Growth
Growth ArrestSpecific 6 (GAS6) is a protein that is important for regulating cell growth,
proliferation and preventing cell death. Its function is dependent on Vitamin-K
Cardiovascular Disease
Vitamin-K prevents some cardiovascular diseases.
EFFECT OF VITAMIN-K DEFICIENCY
Deficiency of vitamin-K results in serious complications such as prolonged blood clotting
time and an increased risk to hemorrhage.

Appearance of blood in urine or stool and experiencing, heavy bleeding during menstrual
cycle are also signs of vitamin-K deficiency.

Deficiencies of vitamin-K are not very common among adults, but newborns are found to
be at a higher risk as breast milk is typically low in vitamin-K and the infants natural
vitamin-K cycle may not be fully developed.

Signs of vitamin-K deficiency include weakening of bones, osteoporosis, and fractures.
Other symptoms of vitamin-K deficiency are hardening of heart valves, accumulation of
calcium salts in a body tissue and neural tube defects.
TOXICITY OF VITAMIN-K
The effects of vitamin-K toxicity can include jaundice in newborns, hemolytic anemia, and
hyperbilirubinemia (too much bilirubin in the blood, Bilirubin is a yellowish pigment found in
bile). Toxicity also blocks the effects of oral anticoagulants.
THIAMINE
Thiamine or thiamin or Vitamin-B1 is a water soluble vitamin, its deficiency is characterized
by beriberi.
Synonyms
- 57 -
Biochemistry
Vitamin-B1
Thiamine
Anti-Beriberi factor
Source
Animal: Egg yolk, liver, milk, kidney, heart and liver of fish
Plant: Whole cereal, yeast, whole wheat flour, pulses, fresh fruits and vegetables.
FUNCTIONS OF THIAMINE
Beriberi
The most important use of thiamine is to treat beriberi, which is caused by not getting
enough thiamine in your diet. Symptoms include swelling, tingling, or burning sensation in the
hands and feet, confusion, trouble breathing because of fluid in the lungs, and uncontrolled
eye movements called nystagmus.
Act as Carboxylase
Vitamin-B1 plays an important role in various decarboxylase reactions
Growth
Vitamin-B1 is essential for the normal growth and development of body just like other
vitamins.
Cardio Vascular System
Due to deficiency of Vitamin-B1 congestive heart failure can occur
EFFECT OF THIAMINE DEFICIENCY
Symptoms of vitamin-B1 deficiency are fatigue, irritability, depression and abdominal
discomfort. People with vitamin-B1 deficiency also have trouble digesting carbohydrates.
RIBOFLAVIN
Riboflavin or Vitamin-B2 is a water soluble heat stable vitamin its deficiency is
characterized by Ariboflavinosis (A condition caused by a riboflavin deficiency, characterized

by angular stomatitis and a magenta-colored tongue). Vitamin-B2, or riboflavin, works together
with the family of B-complex vitamins to provide the body with energy by metabolizing
carbohydrates, fats, and proteins.
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Biochemistry
Synonyms
Vitamin-B2
Riboflavin
Lactoflavin
Source
Animal: Well distributed in the nature excellent sources are liver kidney heart fish eggs
milk
Plant: Fresh fruits root vegetable like carrot also synthesized by intestinal bacteria to
some extent.
FUNCTIONS OF RIBOFLAVIN
Riboflavin is used for cervical cancer, and migraine headaches. It is also used for treating,
acne, muscle cramps, burning feet syndrome. Some people use riboflavin for eye conditions
including eye fatigue, cataracts, and glaucoma.
Other uses include increasing energy levels; boosting immune system function;
maintaining healthy hair, skin, mucous membranes, and nails.
EFFECT OF RIBOFLAVIN DEFICIENCY
Signs and symptoms of riboflavin deficiency include cracked and red lips, inflammation of
the lining of mouth and tongue, mouth ulcers, cracks at the corners of the mouth and a sore
throat. A deficiency may also cause dry and scaling skin.
PANTOTHENIC ACID
Pantothenic acid or vitamin-B5 is a water-soluble vitamin; it is among the most important of
the B vitamins for the basic processes of life
Synonyms
Vitamin-B5
Pantothenate
Source
It is widely found in both plants and animals including meat, vegetables, cereal grains,
legumes, eggs, and milk.
FUNCTIONS OF PANTOTHENIC ACID
Pantothenic acid is used in the synthesis of coenzyme A (CoA).

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Biochemistry
To break down fats as fuel, Pantothenic acid via the CoA is necessary for building fats for
storage.
Without Pantothenic acid, you would be unable to use fats, carbohydrates, or proteins as
energy sources. You would be unable to make hormones and your immune system
would collapse.
Pantothenic acid is also used for treating dietary deficiencies, acne, alcoholism, allergies,
baldness, asthma and heart failure. It is also taken by mouth for dandruff, depression,
diabetic nerve pain, enhancing immune function, improving athletic performance.
EFFECT OF PANTOTHENIC ACID DEFICIENCY
Pantothenic acid deficiency is exceptionally rare. However some deficiency symptoms are
disorders of the nervous system, gastrointestinal, and immune systems, reduced growth rate,
skin lesions and changes in hair coat, and alterations in lipid and carbohydrate metabolism.
NIACIN
Niacin or Vitamin-B3 is water soluble, thermo-stable vitamin. Its deficiency is characterized
by pellagra (Skin rash, nerve disorder and diarrhea).
Synonyms
Vitamin-B3
Nicotinic acid
Niacin amide (Nicotinamide)
Pellagra preventing factor
Source
This vitamin is widely distributed both in animal and plant.
Animal: Liver, Kidney, Meat, Fish, Eggs, Milk

Plants: Dried yeast, dried legumes whole wheat, peanuts, tomatoes, leafy vegetables
etc.
FUNCTIONS OF NIACIN
Act as Co-Enzymes
It is the most important function of niacin, as it acts as H acceptor in various Redox
reactions in the form of NAD & NADP. They worked in association with dehydrogenises and act
as H acceptor Co-Enzyme.
Prevents Pellagra
- 60 -
Biochemistry
Niacin prevents pellagra by keeping various Redox Reactions
Growth
Like other vitamins Niacin is essential for the normal growth and development.
Act as CNS Stimulator
It has stimulatory effect on CNS.
EFFECT OF NIACIN DEFICIENCY
Severe deficiency, called pellagra, can cause symptoms related to the skin, digestive
system, and nervous system. They include
Thick, scaly pigmented rash on skin exposed to sunlight

Swollen mouth and bright red tongue
Vomiting and diarrhea
Headache
Fatigue
Depression
If not treated, pellagra can lead to death.
PYRIDOXAL PHOSPHATE
Pyridoxal Phosphate or Vitamin-B6 is water soluble heat stable vitamin; it is widely
distributed in nature.
Synonyms
Vitamin-B6
Pyridoxine
Pyridoxamine
Pyridoxa
Source
Animal: Egg yolk, meat, fish, milk, yeast etc

Plant: Whole grains, cabbage, legume, cauliflower etc
FUNCTIONS OF PYRIDOXAL PHOSPHATE
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Biochemistry
Vitamin B6 is used by the body for many functions, including uses with metabolism, the
nervous system and oxygen transport in the blood.

Vitamin B6 is used by the body in many places including the metabolism of protein and
the release of glucose from glycogen, both necessary for energy production in the body.
Vitamin B6 is also important to the body because it is required for the synthesis of many
neurotransmitters including serotonin, epinephrine and dopamine along with histamine.

The other major function of Vitamin B6 is its important role with hemoglobin and oxygen
transport. Vitamin B6 is used in two very different ways that both have an impact on your
body ability to transport oxygen to cells. First, Vitamin B6 is used by the body to create
hemoglobin, which is used inside red blood cells to carry oxygen. Once the hemoglobin
is created, the body also later uses Vitamin B6 to increase the effectiveness of the
oxygen-carrying capacity of the red blood cells.
EFFECT OF PYRIDOXAL PHOSPHATE DEFICIENCY
Pyridoxal Phosphate deficiency can cause a form of anemia.

Confusion
Depression
Irritability
Mouth and tongue sores
BIOTIN
Biotin or vitamin-B7 is water soluble, heat stable, and an important vitamin for growth.
Synonyms
Vitamin-B7
Co-Enzyme-R
Source
Animal: Liver, Kidney, milk eggs

Plants: Fruits, vegetables, tomatoes
FUNCTIONS OF BIOTIN
It acts as co-enzyme for various carboxylation reactions it is involved in the formation of
carbonyl phosphate from NH3 and CO2 and ATP in urea cycle.
EFFECT OF BIOTIN DEFICIENCY
Deficiency of biotin may cause following clinical features.

- 62 -
Biochemistry
Lassitude
Anemia
Increased cholesterol level
Muscular pain
Dermatitis
Retardation of growth
Fall of hairs
FOLIC ACID
Folic acid or vitamin-B9 is water soluble, heat stable and antianemic factor.
Synonyms
Vitamin-B9
Source
It is widely distributed in nature; It is named folic acid because it occurs especially in foliage
of plants.
Animals: Liver, Kidney, Yeast

Plant: Root vegetables. It is also synthesized by intestinal micro organisms.
FUNCTIONS OF FOLIC ACID
Folic acid is used for preventing anemia (Megaloblastic anemia) Folic acid is also used for
other conditions commonly associated with folic acid deficiency, including ulcerative colitis,
liver disease, alcoholism, and kidney dialysis.
Women who are pregnant or might become pregnant take folic acid to prevent miscarriage
and neural tube defects, birth defects that occur when the fetuss spine and back dont close
during development.
Some people use folic acid to prevent colon cancer or cervical cancer. It is also used to
prevent heart disease and stroke, as well as to reduce blood levels of a chemical called
homocysteine.
EFFECT OF FOLIC ACID DEFICIENCY
Bone marrow depression

Pancytopenia
Megaloblastic anemia
Reproductive detects
Growth retardation
Diarrhea
Weakness
Fatigue
- 63 -
ASCORBIC ACID
Ascorbic acid or Vitamin-C or L-ascorbic acid is water soluble, white crystalline, odorless
and sour taste vitamin.
Synonyms
Vitamin-C
Chemistry
In human body vitamin-C is found as L- Ascorbic Acid.

Human body is unable to synthesize vitamin-C
It is a strong reducing agent and therefore readily oxidized in the body to dehydrate
ascorbic acid
Freezing and dehydration retains the vitamin-C
Stable in solid form and in acidic solution but rapidly destroyed in alkaline solution
Source
Plant: Fresh Fruits: orange, lemon, grapes, guava, apple, strawberry etc. fresh
Vegetables: tomatoes, cauliflower, cabbage, onion, lettuce, green peas, beans etc.
Animal: Liver, kidney, adrenal glands etc.
FUNCTIONS OF ASCORBIC ACID
Intercellular Substance
Ascorbic acid is required for the functional activities of fibroblast (connective tissue cell)
and osteoblast and consequently for the formation of collagen fibers (connective tissue
fiber) and mucopolysaccharide of connective tissues and osteoid tissues collagen.
Wound Repair
Vitamin C takes active part in wound repair. It lays down the connective tissue which
helps in healing of wound.
Haematopoiesis (the process of blood cell formation)
Vitamin C has a stimulating effect on haematopoiesis because anemia usually

accompanies scurvy.
Growth
It is probably involved in the growth process of a child.
Bones & Teeth
Vitamin C helps in the deposition of Ca and PO4 in the bones and teeth.
Synthesis of Protein Matrix
It helps in the synthesis of protein matrix. It also plays an important role in certain amino
acid metabolism.
Iron Absorption and Mobilization
Vitamin C is one of the factors influencing the absorption of iron from the food.
Oxidation-Reduction
Vitamin C is possible to involve in various oxidation-reduction systems of the body.
Detoxification
Vitamin C helps in the detoxification of certain poisonous substance thats why it is given
in large amount in all types of infections and after burns.
EFFECT OF ASCORBIC ACID DEFICIENCY
A severe form of vitamin C deficiency is known as scurvy. Scurvy causes general
weakness, anemia, gum disease, and skin hemorrhages.

Loose teeth
Superficial bleeding
Fragility of blood vessels
Poor healing
Compromised immunity
Mild anemia
Non Specific Symptoms
This includes
Weakness
Weight loss
Restlessness
Drowsiness
Toxicity
Vitamin C toxicity is usually caused by taking too many supplements. It is usually not
caused by getting too much vitamin C from food. Vitamin C toxicity can cause diarrhea,
nausea, stomach cramps. Vitamin C toxicity is usually not serious and is treated by
stopping vitamin C supplements.
CYANOCOBALAMIN
Cyanocobalamin or Vitamin-B12, also called cobalamin, is a water-soluble vitamin with a

key role in the normal functioning of the brain and nervous system, and for the formation
of blood.
Synonyms
Vitamin-B12
Cobalamin
Cyanocobalamin
Antipernicious anemia factor
Source
Coblamine is present in liver whole milk kidney eggs fish cheese and muscle. It is not
found in plants
It is synthesized by micro organisms.
FUNCTIONS OF CYANOCOBALAMIN
Erythropoiesis
Erythropoiesis is the process by which red blood cells (erythrocytes) are produced. Along
with folic acid vitamin B12 is actively involved in the development of RBCs.
WBCs Maturation
It is required for the normal maturation of WBCs and thrombocytes.
Protein Synthesis
Vitamin B12 activates amino acid for the synthesis of protein.
EFFECT OF CYANOCOBALAMIN DEFICIENCY
Cyanocobalamin deficiency can have a number of possible causes. Typically it occurs in

people whose digestive systems do not adequately absorb the vitamin from the foods
they eat. This can be caused by Pernicious anemia and Atrophic gastritis (thinning of the
stomach lining).
Its deficiency may also causes symptoms such as
Weakness, tiredness or light-headedness

Rapid heartbeat and breathing
Sore tongue
easy bruising or bleeding, including bleeding gums
Stomach upset and weight loss
Diarrhea or constipation
INTRODUCTION TO BIOTECHNOLOGY
Biotechnology, the term was coined by a Hungarian engineer, Karl Ereky and is defined
as per the UN convention on biological diversity as,
Any technological application that uses biological system or living organisms to

make or modify the process or products for specific use.
Simply we can say that Biotechnology is the use of living systems and organisms to
develop or make useful products.
Biotechnology has touched almost every aspect of human life. Biotechnology dealing
with medical and health care is termed as Red biotechnology. It is Green biotechnology
when it concerns about agricultural processes, White biotechnology when comes to
industrial processes and Blue biotechnology when dealing with marine and freshwater
organisms.
1.
2.
3.
4.
Red Biotechnology (Dealing with medical and health care)

Green Biotechnology (Dealing with agricultural processes)
White Biotechnology (Dealing with industrial processes)
Blue biotechnology (Dealing with marine and freshwater organisms)
RED BIOTECHNOLOGY
Biotechnology applied to the medical and health care field is termed as Red
Biotechnology. Intensive research in this field has not only assured a ray of hope for
various life threatening diseases but has also enhanced the quality of life.
Red biotechnology deals with pharmacogenomics, designing organisms to produce

antibiotics and vaccines, clinical research and trials, gene therapy and diagnostics. The
technology is useful in veterinary science and poultry farming as well.
Commonly the areas covered by red biotechnology is
Genetic Engineering
Pharmacogenomics and Medicines
Produce antibiotics and vaccines
Cloning
Stem cell Therapy
GREEN BIOTECHNOLOGY
Biotechnology has brought a revolution in the field of agriculture. It is now common to

hear about genetically modified fruits, vegetables available in any season and offering
you specific nutritions.Trans-genetic plants modified for increased resistance to pests
and diseases, improved flavor and enhanced growth in adverse weather conditions have
started occupying place in our refrigerators. Not just this, but there is much more that
green biotechnology also known as Plant Biotechnology has done especially alleviating
the pains of farmers.
Main research areas and applications include...
Plant tissue culture

Plant Genetic Engineering
Bio fertilizers and bio pesticides
Hybridization
WHITE BIOTECHNOLOGY
With the distinguished potential witnessed in medical and agriculture sectors, the
industrial processes cannot remain untouched. When dealing with industrial processes, it
is termed as White biotechnology. It deals with the production of various products, from
bread to biodiesel. Enzymes and organisms are employed for the processing and
production of chemicals and other products. Such fermentation and enzymatic processes
are also economical and eco-friendly as compared to their physical and mechanical
processes.
White Biotechnology is significantly affecting chemical, textile, paper, food, mining and
cosmetics industries, by introducing environment friendly biological processes in place of
traditional methods dependent on petroleum based synthetics. The use of enzymes for
washing processes at textile industries is a good example, where biological processes
have reduced the cost and energy employed. It is also used for purification of water with
certain bacteria, production of bio degradable plastics, enzymes in food manufacturing,
insulin production and many more.
White Biotechnology is also concerned with production of alternative energy resources.

Production of ethanol as a substitute of gasoline, from starch and carbohydrates begun
the era of Bio fuels. Ongoing research in this field is promising and we can hope for a
future fuelled by eco friendly Bio fuels; changing hydrocarbon economy to carbohydrate
economy.
BLUE BIOTECHNOLOGY
Blue biotechnology is concerned with the application of molecular biological methods to

marine and freshwater organisms. It involves the use of these organisms, and their
derivatives, for purposes such as increasing seafood supply and safety, controlling the
proliferation of noxious water-borne organisms, and developing new drugs.
FUTURE OF BIOTECHNOLOGY
Biotechnology has the potential to change our world. Coming years may witness the
whole new way of growing crops, dealing with deadly disease and handling future of
Biotechnology environmental problems.
From our medicines to our food, biotechnology offers all new healthier ways to every
aspect of life. In the future age of biotechnology, children will be produced in hatchery
rather than born. Moreover, parents will be able to choose which of their gene
combination they want to hand down to their children.
Many techniques like Crytogenetics, Xenotransplantation, Proteomics, DNA microarrays

are ready to add new horizons to the advancement of biotechnology.
GENETIC ENGINEERING
Genetic engineering is the process of transferring specific genes from the chromosome
of one organism and transplanting them into the chromosome of another organism in
such a way that they become a reproductive part of the new organism. Or
Genetic engineering is the process of removing a gene from one organism and putting it
into another. Often, the removed genes are put into bacteria or yeast cells so that
scientists can study the gene or the protein it produces more easily. Sometimes, genes
are put into a plant or an animal.
APPLICATIONS OF GENETIC ENGINEERING
Genetic engineering has applications in medicine, research, industry and agriculture and
can be used on a wide range of plants, animals and micro organisms.
GENETIC ENGINEERING AND MEDICINE
In medicine genetic engineering has been used to mass-produce insulin, human growth
hormones, treating infertility, human albumin, monoclonal antibodies, vaccines and many
other drugs.
The first two commercially prepared products from recombinant DNA technology were
insulin and human growth hormone, both of which were cultured in the E. coli bacteria.
Gene therapy is the genetic engineering of humans by replacing defective human genes
with functional copies. Gene therapy has been successfully used to treat multiple
diseases, including X-linked SCID, chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), and Parkinson's
disease.
GENETIC ENGINEERING AND RESEARCH
Genetic engineering is an important tool for natural scientists. Genes and other genetic
information from a wide range of organisms are transformed into bacteria for storage and
modification, creating genetically modified bacteria in the process.
Bacteria are cheap, easy to grow, clonal, multiply quickly, relatively easy to transform and
can be stored at -80 C almost indefinitely. Once a gene is isolated it can be stored
inside the bacteria providing an unlimited supply for research.
GENETIC ENGINEERING AND INDUSTRY
Using genetic engineering techniques one can transform microorganisms such as

bacteria or yeast, or transform cells from multi-cellular organisms such as insects or
mammals, with a gene coding for a useful protein, such as an enzyme, so that the
transformed organism will over express the desired protein.
One can manufacture mass quantities of the protein by growing the transformed
organism in bioreactor equipment using techniques of industrial fermentation, and then
purifying the protein.
GENETIC ENGINEERING AND AGRICULTURE
One of the best-known and controversial applications of genetic engineering is the

creation and use of genetically modified crops. There are four main goals in generating
genetically modified crops.
1. Protection from environmental threats, such as cold or pathogens, such as insects or

viruses. There are also fungal and virus resistant crops developed or in development.
2. Modify the quality of the agriculture products, for instance, increasing the nutritional
value or providing more industrially useful qualities or quantities of the products.
3. Accelerating the growth of crops
4. Reduce the usage of chemicals, such as fertilizers and pesticides, and therefore
decrease the severity and frequency of the damages produced by this chemical
pollution.
ELECTROLYTES OF BODY
Electrolytes are minerals in your blood and other body fluids that carry an electric
charge.
Electrolytes affect the amount of water in your body, the acidity of your blood (pH), your
muscle function, and other important processes. You lose electrolytes when you sweat.
You must replace them by drinking fluids.
Common electrolytes include:
Calcium
Chloride
Magnesium
Phosphorous
Potassium
Sodium
ELECTROLYTE BALANCE
Electrolyte balance, or salt balance, is necessary in controlling fluid movements within

the body. Salts are lost in perspiration, urine, feces and may be lost excessively in
diarrhea, vomiting and sweating. Sodium is the most important electrolyte in maintaining
electrolyte balance. Regulating the balance between sodium input and output is an
important renal function.
ACID- BASE BALANCE:
Acid-base balance is the part of human homeostasis concerning the proper balance
between acids and bases, also called body pH. The body is very sensitive to its pH level,
so strong mechanisms exist to maintain it. Outside the acceptable range of pH, proteins
are denatured and digested, enzymes lose their ability to function, and death may occur.
The body's acid-base balance is tightly regulated by buffering system of our body.
Arterial blood must be kept at a pH of 7.35 to 7.45. When the pH rises above 7.45 or falls
below 7.35. The quickest way (less than 1sec) that blood pH is adjusted by buffering
system of our body.
There are three important buffer systems in our bodies
1. Bicarbonate Buffer System

2. Phosphate Buffer System
3. Protein Buffer System
BICARBONATE BUFFER SYSTEM
The bicarbonate buffering system is an important buffer system in the acid-base

homeostasis of living things, including humans. As a buffer, it tends to maintain a
relatively constant plasma pH and counteract any force that would alter.
PHOSPHATE BUFFER SYSTEM
The phosphate buffer system operates in the internal fluid of all cells. This buffer system
consists of Dihydrogen Phosphate ions (H2PO4-) as Hydrogen-ion donor (acid) and
Hydrogen Phosphate ions (HPO42-) as Hydrogen-ion acceptor (base). If additional
hydrogen ions enter the cellular fluid, they are consumed in the reaction with HPO 42-. If
additional hydroxide ions enter the cellular fluid, they react with H2PO4- and maintain the
pH.
PROTEIN BUFFER SYSTEM
The protein buffer system is the most important and widely operating buffer in the body
fluid. An example of a protein buffer is hemoglobin. Protein molecules possess basic and
acidic groups which act as H+ acceptors or donors respectively if H+ is added or
removed.
Course Outline Biochemistry
1.
General introduction and basic biochemical principles.
2.
General introduction, basic chemistry, nature and classification and functions of
carbohydrates, Lipids, Proteins and Amino acids, Nucleic acids, Vitamins, Hormones,
Enzymes.
3.
Role of vitamins, Physiological role of Fat-soluble Vitamins (A, D, E and K) and
Water-soluble vitamins (Thiamin, Riboflavin, Pantothenic acid, Niacin, Pyridoxal

phosphate, Biotin Folic acid, Cyanocobalamin-members of B complex family and
Ascorbic acid).
4.
Introduction to Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering.
5.
Acid Base and electrolyte balance in human body.

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What are the main topics covered in the book?

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What are the three main buffer systems in the human body?

What are the three main buffer systems in the human body?

Biochemistry

Syed Bilal Hussain

WHAT IS BIOCHEMISTRY USED FOR?

HYDROGEN ION CONCENTRATION

THE COLLOIDAL STATE

COLLIGATIVE PROPERTIES OF SOLUTIONS

ION EXCHANGE RESINS

FUNCTIONAL GROUPS OF CARBOHYDRATES

NATURAL PRODUCTION OF CARBOHYDRATES

CARBOHYDRATES MAJOR SOURCE OF ENERGY

HOW CARBOHYDRATES SUPPLY ENERGY

FATS AND OILS

COMPOUND OR COMPLEX LIPIDS

GLYCOLIPIDS ALSO CALLED GLYCOSPHINGOLIPIDS

GENERAL FORMULA OF AMINO ACID

PRIMARY STRUCTURE OF PROTEINS

CONJUGATED OR COMPOUND PROTEINS

STANDARD AMINO ACIDS

NON-STANDARD AMINO ACIDS

ESSENTIAL AMINO ACIDS

NON-ESSENTIAL AMINO ACIDS

FUNCTIONS OF AMINO ACIDS

COMPONENTS OF NUCLEIC ACIDS OR NUCLEOTIDES

TYPES AND FUNCTION OF RNA

THE MAIN ENDOCRINE GLANDS INCLUDE

CLASSIFICATION OF HORMONES BASED ON THE SITE OF PRODUCTION/

HORMONES OF PITUITARY GLANDS

HORMONES OF ANTERIOR PITUITARY FLANDS

HORMONES OF POSTERIOR PITUITARY FLANDS

HORMONES OF THYROID GLANDS

HORMONES OF PARATHYROID GLANDS

HORMONES OF ADRENAL GLAND

HORMONES OF OVARY GLAND

CLASSIFICATION OF HORMONES BASED ON THE CHEMICAL NATURE

DERIVATIVE OF THE AMINO ACID CALLED TYROSINE

GROWTH HORMONE (GH)

EFFECT ON PROTEIN METABOLISM

EFFECTS ON CARBOHYDRATE METABOLISM

EFFECTS ON FAT METABOLISM

EFFECTS ON INORGANIC METABOLISM

EFFECTS ON BONE, CARTILAGE, AND SOFT TISSUES

VASOPRESSIN/ ANTIDIURETIC HORMONE (ADH)

EFFECTS OF INSULIN ON CARBOHYDRATE METABOLISM

EFFECTS OF INSULIN ON FAT METABOLISM

EFFECTS OF INSULIN ON PROTEIN METABOLISM

EFFECTS OF INSULIN ON GROWTH

EFFECT ON THE MALE REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM

EFFECTS ON SECONDARY SEX CHARACTERISTICS

EFFECT ON PROTEIN MMETABOLISM

EFFECT ON ELECTROLYTE AND WATER BALANCE

MECHANISM OF ENZYME REACTIONS

CHEMICAL NATURE OF ENZYME

FACTOR AFFECTING ENZYME ACTIVITIES

"LOCK AND KEY" MODEL

GENERAL PROPERTIES OF VITAMINS