General Biochemistry Practical: Biological Macromolecules and Qualitative Tests

Major Biological Macromolecules

• The four major biological macromolecules are carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids.

Branches of Modern Biochemistry

• The two branches of modern biochemistry are Descriptive Biochemistry and Dynamic Biochemistry.
• Descriptive Biochemistry focuses on the structure and function of biomolecules.
• Dynamic Biochemistry deals with the chemical reactions and processes that occur within living organisms.

Emerged Disciplines

• Disciplines that have emerged from biochemistry include molecular biology, genetic engineering, and biomedical engineering.

Contribution to Drug Development

• Biochemists contribute to the development of new drugs to treat diseases by understanding the chemical basis of biological processes and identifying potential targets for therapy.

Carbohydrates

• The primary foodstuff in most organisms is carbohydrates, which play a central role in energy production and storage.
• Carbohydrates are classified into three main classes: monosaccharides, disaccharides, and polysaccharides.
• Examples of carbohydrates with a structural or storage role include cellulose, chitin, and starch.

History of Biochemistry

• The term 'Biochemistry' was first described by Friedrich Wöhler in 1838.

Objectives of Studying Biochemistry

• The major objectives of studying biochemistry are to understand the chemical basis of life, to understand the mechanisms of biological processes, and to develop new treatments and therapies for diseases.
• The objectives of studying biochemistry can be related to daily life by understanding how biochemistry affects our health, nutrition, and environment.