Introduction to Biochemistry and Biotechnology in Nursing - Study Guide (copy)

Organization

Living things are highly organized, ranging from the smallest microscopic parts to the largest structural components.

Energy Acquisition

All living organisms possess the ability to acquire materials and energy from their environment.

Responsiveness

Living things have the ability to respond to environmental stimuli.

Reproduction

All living organisms have the capacity to reproduce.

Adaptation

Living things possess the ability to adapt to their environment over time.

Genetic Information

All living things contain genetic information that governs their biological processes.

Biochemistry

The study of chemical substances and vital processes occurring in living organisms.

Metabolism

The sum of all chemical processes within living organisms, required to sustain life.

Macromolecules

Large biomolecules including carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids essential for life.

Carbohydrates

Biomolecules that act as energy sources and play roles in various metabolic processes.

Proteins

Polymers of amino acids that provide structure, function as enzymes and hormones, and play critical roles in biological processes.

Lipids

Hydrophobic biomolecules that form cell membranes, store energy, and are involved in signaling processes.

Nucleic Acids

Polymers of nucleotides that store and express genetic information (DNA and RNA).

Amino Acids

Building blocks of proteins, linked by peptide bonds, with unique sequences determining protein structure and function.

Vitamins

Organic molecules essential in small quantities for metabolic functions; must be obtained through diet.

Enzymes

Biological catalysts usually composed of proteins that speed up biochemical reactions.

ATP

A nucleoside triphosphate used as a coenzyme and primary cellular energy source.

Fibrous Proteins

Insoluble proteins with structural functions, such as collagen and keratin.

Globular Proteins

Soluble proteins that perform metabolic functions, such as enzymes and transport proteins.

Immunoglobulins

Antibodies produced by plasma cells, crucial for immune response.

Dipeptide

A molecule formed by two amino acids linked by a peptide bond.

Oxytocin

A peptide hormone that regulates uterine contractions and lactation.

Enzyme Kinetics

The study of the rates of enzyme-catalyzed reactions and factors influencing them.