Microbiology and Gene Expression Concepts

Historical Milestones in Biochemistry

• 1990: Introduction of gene therapy.
• 1993: Kary B. Mullis invented the Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR).
• 1990-2003: Human Genome Project aimed at mapping the human DNA sequence.
• 2012: Development of CRISPR-Cas9, a groundbreaking genome editing method.
• Soren Sorensen (1868-1939) introduced the concept of pH.
• James D. Watson and Francis Crick established the double helix structure of DNA.
• James B. Sumner (1887-1955) was the first to crystallize an enzyme, urease.

Nature of Biochemical Reactions

• Biochemical reactions transform one molecule into another within cells.
• These reactions are critical for metabolism, encompassing both catabolic and anabolic processes.
• Enzymes, as biological catalysts, mediate biochemical reactions, influencing their rate and specificity.

Importance of Biochemistry

• Biochemistry describes biological processes at the molecular level, including the organization and function of living matter.
• It plays a crucial role in understanding the chemical processes of living cells, metabolism, and regulation.
• Biochemical research underpins advancements in medicine, agriculture, and biotechnology, addressing metabolic diseases and enhancing productivity.

Omics Fields in Biochemistry

• "Omics" refers to a comprehensive study of large biological data sets.
• Genomics studies genes and their functions.
• Proteomics explores the structure and functions of proteins.
• Transcriptomics examines RNA molecules.
• Lipidomics focuses on lipid structures and functions.
• Metabolomics analyzes metabolic profiles in organisms.
• Nutrigenomics investigates how nutrition interacts with genes.
• Pharmacogenomics studies how genes affect individual responses to medications.

Key Biochemical Reactions

• Neutralization Reactions: Involves the reaction of an acid and a base producing water and salt.
• Oxidation-Reduction Reactions: Involves the loss (oxidation) and gain (reduction) of electrons.
• Condensation Reactions: Combine two molecules to create a single larger molecule, often forming covalent bonds (e.g., between amino acids).
• Hydrolysis Reactions: Utilize water to break down polymers into monomers, releasing energy.
• Phosphorylation: Involves adding a phosphate group to molecules, essential for energy transfer in cells.
• Decarboxylation: Removes a carboxyl group and releases carbon dioxide, often occurring with carboxylic acids.

Applications of Biochemistry

• Biochemical understanding is essential for addressing health and disease, as most diseases have biochemical underpinnings.
• Disturbances in biochemical processes can lead to health issues like hormonal imbalances, electrolyte imbalances, and genetic disorders.
• Research in genetics, cell biology, immunology, nutrition, pharmacology, and pathology is vital for advancing biochemistry and improving health outcomes.

Fun Fact

• The human brain conducts over 100,000 biochemical reactions every second.

This quiz explores key concepts in microbiology, including the role of microarrays in analyzing gene expression, as well as notable contributions from scientists like Soren Sorensen and James Watson. Learn about the historical context and scientific advancements that shaped our understanding of aerobic and anaerobic processes. Test your knowledge on gene therapy and the invention of PCR.