Biochemistry in Pharmacy & Nursing

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary focus of biochemistry?

The development of new drugs in the pharmaceutical industry

The study of chemical processes in living organisms (correct)

The interaction of chemical processes in the cosmos

The chemical reactions in non-living matter

What defines a polymer in the context of macromolecules?

A simple compound made up of two elements

A small molecule that serves as a building block for larger structures

A type of chemical bond formed between atoms

A long molecule composed of repeated monomer units (correct)

Which process is responsible for the formation of polymers from monomers?

Chemical precipitation

Thermal decomposition

Hydrolysis reaction

Dehydration synthesis (correct)

How are monomers primarily formed?

Via hydrolysis or rehydration reactions Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes prokaryotes?

Simple organisms characterized by the absence of a nucleus Signup and view all the answers

Which of these is NOT a goal of biochemistry?

Explaining chemical processes in non-living materials Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of studying the molecular basis of life in biochemistry?

It provides insights into drug formulation and metabolism Signup and view all the answers

What reaction is the opposite of dehydration synthesis?

Hydrolysis reaction Signup and view all the answers

What is the structural feature that allows DNA strands to maintain their double helical shape?

Hydrogen bonding between complementary nitrogenous bases Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following correctly describes a characteristic of RNA?

RNA can act as a catalyst in some biochemical reactions Signup and view all the answers

What are the three components that make up a nucleotide?

Nitrogenous base, pentose sugar, and one or more phosphate groups Signup and view all the answers

Which statement is true regarding the location of DNA within a eukaryotic cell?

DNA is primarily located in the nucleus and mitochondria Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) from ribonucleic acid (RNA)?

DNA contains deoxyribose sugar, whereas RNA contains ribose Signup and view all the answers

Which nitrogen base is specific to RNA and not found in DNA?

Uracil Signup and view all the answers

The process by which DNA is replicated involves what key mechanism?

The formation of complementary strands via base pairing Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a function of nucleic acids in the cell?

Providing structural support to cells Signup and view all the answers

What is the general formula for carbohydrates?

Cn(H2O)n Signup and view all the answers

Which classification is used for monosaccharides based on the number of carbon atoms?

Trioses, Tetroses, Pentoses Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a function of monosaccharides in the human body?

Source of energy Signup and view all the answers

What type of bond connects monosaccharides in disaccharides?

Glycosidic bond Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following disaccharides consists of glucose and fructose?

Sucrose Signup and view all the answers

What is NOT a characteristic of polysaccharides?

Sweet to taste Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an oligosaccharide?

Maltose Signup and view all the answers

What is a key requirement for sugars to be classified as carbohydrates?

Possess a 1:2:1 ratio of C, H, and O Signup and view all the answers

What type of carbohydrate cannot be hydrolyzed into smaller units?

Monosaccharides Signup and view all the answers

Which functional group distinguishes aldoses from ketoses?

Aldehyde group Signup and view all the answers

Which polysaccharide is primarily involved in energy storage in animals?

Glycogen Signup and view all the answers

How many monosaccharide units must be present for a molecule to be categorized as an oligosaccharide?

2-9 Signup and view all the answers

Which carbohydrate is most commonly used in intravenous solutions to raise blood sugar levels?

Dextrose Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following accurately describes the structure of glycogen?

A complex branched structure of glucose monomers Signup and view all the answers

Which carbohydrate is primarily used in the structure of the fungal cell wall?

Chitin Signup and view all the answers

What role does cellulose primarily serve in plants?

Structural component Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about inulin is correct?

It is a polymer of fructose. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement is true regarding simple lipids?

They are primarily used for energy storage. Signup and view all the answers

Which type of fat remains solid at room temperature?

Saturated fats Signup and view all the answers

Which statement is incorrect regarding the roles of carbohydrates in the extracellular matrix?

They provide energy for muscular contractions. Signup and view all the answers

In what form is excess glucose stored in animals?

Glycogen Signup and view all the answers

What characteristic distinguishes lipids from carbohydrates?

Lipids are primarily composed of hydrocarbons. Signup and view all the answers

Which type of lipid includes a glycerol backbone?

Phospholipids Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is primarily responsible for insulation against cold in the body?

Adipose tissue Signup and view all the answers

Which one of the following is not a component of blood group substances?

Nucleic acids Signup and view all the answers

Which polysaccharide is primarily produced as an energy store in green plants?

Starch Signup and view all the answers

Which lipid is specifically composed of long-chain saturated fatty acids and long-chain alcohols?

Waxes Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary component of phospholipids that contributes to their structure?

Glycerol Signup and view all the answers

Which type of lipid is primarily involved in the transport of cholesterol in the bloodstream?

Lipoproteins Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a function of glycolipids?

Cell membrane structural component Signup and view all the answers

What characteristic distinguishes terpenes from other lipid types?

Major component of essential oils Signup and view all the answers

Which type of enzyme is responsible for breaking down substrates?

Catabolic enzymes Signup and view all the answers

What is the main role of lipoproteins in human physiology?

Facilitate the transport of lipids and fat-soluble vitamins Signup and view all the answers

How are steroids classified within the lipid category?

As derived lipids because they do not contain fatty acids Signup and view all the answers

Which condition is characterized by an abnormally high level of lipids or lipoproteins in the blood?

Hyperlipoproteinemia Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of having a polar head and non-polar tail in phospholipids?

To form a bilayer in cell membranes Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a feature of amino acids that contribute to protein structure?

Hydrophilic and hydrophobic properties of side chains Signup and view all the answers

What type of proteins regulates biochemical events in the body?

Hormonal proteins Signup and view all the answers

How does excessive fat cause obesity?

By leading to excessive adipose tissue deposition Signup and view all the answers

What is a common characteristic of lipids that distinguishes them from carbohydrates and proteins?

High energy content Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of cholesterol in cell membranes?

To enhance membrane fluidity Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Biochemistry

Biochemistry is the study of chemical processes in living organisms.
It's essential in understanding the chemical basis of life at the cellular and molecular level.

Importance of Biochemistry in Pharmacy & Nursing

It aids in comprehending drug composition, metabolism, storage, and half-life.
Biochemistry is crucial for understanding various biochemical tests relevant to healthcare.

Key Objectives of Biochemistry

Understanding the structure and chemistry of biomolecules.
Exploring how biomolecules interact with each other.
Investigating the mechanisms for biosynthesis of biomolecules in cells.
Elucidating the processes of energy storage and utilization within cells.
Identifying how cells organize and coordinate biomolecular activities.
Delving into the mechanisms responsible for information transfer within living systems.

Cell types

Prokaryotes lack a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles; examples include bacteria.
Eukaryotes possess a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles; examples include plants, fungi, and animals.

Molecules & Macromolecules

A molecule is a group of two or more atoms bonded by covalent bonds, like water (H2O) or glucose.
A macromolecule, or polymer, is a large molecule composed of monomer units linked together, for example, a protein composed of amino acid monomers.

Forming Macromolecules

Macromolecules are formed through condensation reactions (dehydration synthesis) where water is removed.

Forming Monomers

Monomers are formed through hydrolysis reactions where water is added, breaking down polymers.

Four Main Macromolecules

Carbohydrates
Lipids
Proteins
Nucleic acids
All these macromolecules are organic, containing carbon.
They may also contain hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, and other minor elements.

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates are the most abundant organic molecules in nature.
They are present in humans, animals, plants, and microorganisms.
They provide energy to the body in the form of glucose.

Carbohydrate Classification

Monosaccharides: Basic building blocks of carbohydrates, cannot be hydrolyzed further.
- Classified based on the number of carbon atoms (trioses, tetroses, pentoses, hexoses, heptoses).
- Classified based on the functional group:
  - Aldoses: Contain an aldehyde functional group (–CHO), e.g., glyceraldehyde, glucose.
  - Ketoses: Contain a ketone functional group (C=O), e.g., dihydroxyacetone, fructose.
Oligosaccharides: Formed by condensation of 2-9 monosaccharides.
- Examples include disaccharides (sucrose, lactose), trisaccharides (raffinose), and tetrasaccharides (stachyose).
Polysaccharides: Complex carbohydrates formed from many monosaccharides linked by glycosidic bonds.
- They are not sweet and serve as storage and structural components.
- Homoglycans: Composed of one type of monosaccharide monomer, examples include starch, glycogen, and dextran.
- Heteroglycans: Composed of two or more types of monosaccharides, examples include agar, chitin, and peptidoglycans.

Monosaccharides of Biomedical Importance

Glucose: A key source of energy, readily used by the body.
Fructose: An intravenous energy source for patients with various conditions like liver disease, uncontrolled diabetes, and post-operative recovery.
Dextrose: Chemically identical to glucose, used to increase blood sugar levels.

Disaccharides

Disaccharides consist of two monosaccharides linked by a glycosidic bond.
Examples: maltose (glucose + glucose), sucrose (glucose + fructose), lactose (glucose + galactose).

Polysaccharides (Glycans)

Dextran: Complex branched glucan used medically as an antithrombotic to decrease blood viscosity.
Glycogen: Animal storage form of excess sugar, primarily stored in the liver and muscles.
Chitin: Structural material in arthropod exoskeletons, fungal cell walls, and used as surgical thread.
Starch or Amylum: Major energy storage in plants, composed of many glucose units.
Cellulose: A structural component in plant cell walls.
Inulin: A polymer of fructose, found in bulbs, garlic, and onions. Used for testing kidney function due to its rapid filtration through the kidneys.

General Functions of Carbohydrates

Energy storage: Starch and glycogen.
Main source of energy: Glycogen.
Structural components: Cellulose in plants, exoskeletons in insects, cell walls in microorganisms.
Components of various animal and plant structures: cartilage, tendons.
Blood group substances: Carbohydrates are components of blood group substances.
Vitamins: Ascorbic acid, a derivative of carbohydrates, is a water-soluble vitamin.
Antibiotics: Derivatives of carbohydrates are components of antibiotics like erythromycin, used to treat infections.

Lipids

Lipids are primarily composed of hydrocarbons with carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen.
They are relatively insoluble in water but soluble in organic solvents.
Characterized by a hydrophilic head and hydrophobic tails.

Lipid Classification

Simple Lipids:
- Neutral or True Fats (Triacylglycerols): Esters of fatty acids with glycerol.
- Waxes: Esters of fatty acids with alcohols other than glycerol.
Complex Lipids: Contain additional groups like phosphate, nitrogenous bases, or proteins attached to simple lipids.
- Phospholipids: Structural components of cell membranes.
- Glycolipids: Lipids with a carbohydrate attached, serving as components of plasma membranes and blood group substances.
- Lipoproteins: Contain lipids and proteins, primarily found in membranes, milk, and egg yolk.
Derived Lipids: Derivatives obtained on hydrolysis of simple and complex lipids, like steroids and terpenes.
- Steroids: Structures composed of four fused carbon rings, examples include cholesterol, testosterone, estrogen.
- Terpenes: Major components of essential oils produced by plants, contributing to fragrance and therapeutic properties.

Functions of Lipids

Energy storage: Triacylglycerols are the major storage form of energy.
Insulation: Fats under the skin act as thermal insulators.
Padding: Fat around organs like the kidneys and heart provides cushioning and protection.
Electrical Insulation: Myelin sheath in neurons, containing lipids, acts as an electrical insulator.
Fat-Soluble Vitamin Absorption: Help aid in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K).
Structural Components: Phospholipids are essential for cell membrane structure.
Cell Surface Receptors: Glycoproteins serve as cell surface receptors.
Transport of Lipids and Fat-Soluble Vitamins: Lipoproteins play a crucial role in lipid and vitamin transport.

Clinical Significance of Lipids

Obesity: Excessive fat deposits lead to obesity.
Atherosclerosis: Abnormal cholesterol and lipoprotein metabolism contribute to atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases.
Diabetes Mellitus: Disruptions in fatty acid and lipoprotein metabolism occur in diabetes, potentially leading to ketosis.
Hyperlipidemia (Hyperlipoproteinemia): Abnormally elevated levels of lipids and/or lipoproteins in the blood; the most common form of dyslipidemia.
Fatty Liver Disease: Excessive fat accumulation in the liver, exceeding 5-10% of the organ's weight.
Lipid Storage Diseases: Genetic conditions where harmful amounts of lipids accumulate in tissues.

Proteins

Proteins consist of carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, and sometimes sulfur and phosphorus.
They are polymers of amino acids linked by peptide bonds.

Amino Acid Structure

Central Carbon Atom (α-carbon): The core of each amino acid.
Amino Group (-NH2): A nitrogen-containing group.
Carboxyl Group (-COOH): A carbon-containing group with acidic properties.
Hydrogen: Attached to the α-carbon.
Side Chain (R-group): The variable group that distinguishes different amino acids.

Protein Structure

Primary Structure: The linear sequence of amino acids in a polypeptide chain.
Secondary Structure: Local folding patterns of the polypeptide chain, like α-helix and β-sheets.
Tertiary Structure: The overall three-dimensional shape of a single polypeptide chain.
Quaternary Structure: The arrangement of multiple polypeptide chains in a protein complex.

Enzymes

Enzymes are proteins that act as biological catalysts, accelerating chemical reactions.
Each enzyme has a specific substrate it acts upon.
Catabolic enzymes: Break down substrates.
Anabolic enzymes: Build more complex molecules.

General Functions of Proteins

Transport: Hemoglobin transports oxygen in the blood.
Catalysts: Enzymes catalyze biochemical reactions.
Defense: Immunoglobulins (antibodies) play a crucial role in the immune response.
Hormones: Many hormones are proteins, regulating biological processes, for example, insulin.
Muscle Contraction: Actin and myosin are proteins involved in muscle contraction.
Gene Expression: Proteins regulate gene expression and translation.
Nutrient and Storage: Examples include albumin in eggs, casein in milk, and ferritin that stores iron.
Buffers: Plasma proteins help maintain pH balance in the blood.
Anti-Vitamins: Avidin in eggs can bind to biotin (a vitamin), preventing its absorption.
Infective Agents: Prions, responsible for mad cow disease, are proteins.
Toxins: Some toxins are proteins, like cholera enterotoxin.
Structural Strength and Elasticity: Collagen and elastin provide structural support and elasticity to tissues.
Components of Structures: Proteins are integral constituents of various tissues.

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Description

This quiz explores the essential role of biochemistry in pharmacy and nursing fields. It covers key biochemical concepts, including drug composition, biomolecule interactions, and energy utilization in cells. Test your understanding of how biochemistry informs healthcare practices.