HLTH1004 W2 L2.3.5

High Energy Compounds

• Derived from phosphorylated nucleotides.

• Key compounds include:

  • Adenosine Monophosphate (AMP): Contains one phosphate group.

  • Adenosine Diphosphate (ADP): Formed by adding a second phosphate group to AMP.

  • Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP):

    • Formed by adding a third phosphate group to ADP.

    • Contains three phosphate groups and stores a significant amount of energy.

Energy Release Mechanism

• The bond between the second and third phosphate groups in ATP (the terminal phosphate bond) breaks to release energy used for cellular metabolism.

• Enzyme: Adenosine Triphosphate Phosphatase catalyzes the conversion of ATP to ADP and inorganic phosphate (Pi), facilitating energy release.

Energy Release:

• Each phosphate bond broken releases energy, enabling quick access to energy for cellular processes.

• Specifically, the terminal phosphate bond between the second phosphate group (ADP) and the third phosphate group (ATP) is critical for energy release.

Reversible Process

• ADP can be reconverted to ATP when energy is available (e.g., during cellular respiration).

• Serves as an energy reservoir.

Catabolism

• Energy released during the breaking of phosphate bonds is associated with catabolic reactions.

• Involves the breakdown of molecules, releasing energy for cellular functions.

Summary of Lecture Topics

• Discussed atomic structure and organization of elements based on atomic numbers (periodic table).

• Examined types of chemical bonds and the role of outer electrons in bonding.

• Emphasized the importance of phosphate bonds in ATP for physiological processes.

Key Elements in the Human Body

• The human body is primarily composed of six elements:

  • Oxygen

  • Carbon

  • Hydrogen

  • Nitrogen

  • Calcium

  • Phosphorus

Distinction between Organic and Inorganic Chemistry:

• Organic Chemistry: Elements found in living organisms.

• Inorganic Chemistry: Elements not typically found in living organisms but may be important for physiology.