Introduction to Biochemistry Flashcards
What is biochemistry?
The branch of science that explores the chemical processes within and related to living organisms.
It combines principles of both biology and chemistry to understand cellular functions and metabolic pathways.
What are the key components of biochemistry?
- Proteins
- Carbohydrates
- Lipids
- Nucleic acids
These molecules play crucial roles in life processes.
What roles do proteins play in biological processes?
- Act as enzymes
- Serve as hormones
- Function as structural components
Vital for cell function.
What is the primary energy source for cells?
Carbohydrates
They provide immediate energy and support metabolic processes.
What functions do lipids serve?
- Energy storage
- Structural components of cell membranes
- Signaling molecules
They help regulate biological functions.
What are nucleic acids and their importance?
- DNA and RNA
- Carry genetic information necessary for growth and reproduction
Enable life and inheritance.
What is the role of enzymes in biochemical reactions?
They act as catalysts, speeding up reactions necessary for life.
Enzymes lower activation energy and are highly specific.
What impact do temperature and pH have on enzymes?
They impact enzyme activity, making environmental conditions crucial for their function.
Changes can affect the rate of biochemical reactions.
Fill in the blank: Carbohydrates are organic compounds made of _______.
carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen
What are the three categories of carbohydrates?
- Simple sugars
- Starches
- Fibers
These provide energy necessary for cellular functions.
What is the structure of DNA?
A double helix held together by base pairs.
Ensures accurate replication and information transfer.
What is homeostasis?
The body’s ability to maintain stability despite external changes.
Crucial for survival and health.
True or False: Biochemistry plays a crucial role in fields like medicine, genetics, and biotechnology.
True
What is the significance of understanding biochemical pathways in nursing?
Enhances ability to monitor and interpret laboratory results, leading to better patient outcomes.
Aids in medication management and patient education.
What are the forms of RNA?
- mRNA
- tRNA
- rRNA
Each serves unique roles in protein synthesis.
How do lipids contribute to insulation?
They help maintain body temperature by providing thermal insulation.
Protect against extreme environmental conditions.
What is the role of antibodies?
Specialized proteins that protect the body from pathogens.
Enhance our immune response.
Fill in the blank: Enzymology studies _______.
enzymes, their kinetics, structure, and function
What is the impact of biochemical imbalances on recovery?
They can hinder recovery; recognizing the link between nutrition and healing is vital.
Nurses equipped with nutritional knowledge can effectively collaborate with dietitians.
How do advancements in technology impact biochemistry in nursing?
Facilitate a deeper understanding of biochemical processes in disease.
Allows utilization of data-driven interventions to improve patient management.
What is the primary function of glucose in cellular respiration?
It fuels cellular respiration, aiding in the production of ATP.
ATP is the energy currency of cells.
What is the relationship between homeostasis and disease?
Diseases often arise when homeostatic balance is disrupted.
Key biochemical pathways regulate homeostasis.
What is the role of proteins in tissue repair?
Vital macromolecules that play a crucial role in building and repairing tissues.
What is the impact of nutritional knowledge in nursing?
Essential for identifying and addressing biochemical imbalances in patients.
