Catabolism of Amino Acids

These flashcards cover key terms and definitions related to the catabolism of amino acids as discussed in the lecture notes.

Catabolism

The breakdown of complex molecules into simpler ones, releasing energy.

Proteolysis

The process of breaking down proteins into smaller polypeptides or amino acids.

Endopeptidases

Enzymes that hydrolyze peptide bonds within a polypeptide chain.

Exopeptidases

Enzymes that cleave amino acids from the ends of peptide chains.

Lysosomes

Organelles that contain hydrolytic enzymes for degrading waste materials and cellular debris.

Ubiquitin

A small protein that tags other proteins for degradation via the proteasome.

Transamination

The transfer of an amino group from one amino acid to a keto acid, forming a new amino acid and a new keto acid.

Deamination

The removal of an amino group from an amino acid, typically resulting in the production of ammonia.

Nitrogen Balance

The difference between nitrogen intake and nitrogen output in the body.

Hyperammonemia

A condition characterized by elevated levels of ammonia in the blood, often due to urea cycle disorders.

Phenylketonuria (PKU)

A genetic disorder caused by the deficiency of phenylalanine hydroxylase, leading to the accumulation of phenylalanine.

Maple Syrup Disease

A metabolic disorder caused by a deficiency in branched-chain alpha-keto acid dehydrogenase, leading to the accumulation of branched-chain amino acids.

Glucose-Alanine Cycle

A biochemical pathway where alanine is transported from muscle to liver for gluconeogenesis.

Citric Acid Cycle

A central metabolic pathway that connects carbohydrate, fat, and protein metabolism.