Chemistry Concept Map Study Guide

Chemistry Concept Map

Overview of Key Biomolecules and Blood Components

  • Albumin

    • A major protein found in blood plasma that maintains osmotic pressure and transports substances.

  • Total Protein

    • Measures all proteins in the blood, including albumin and globulins.

  • Globulins

    • A group of proteins in blood plasma that include antibodies and play roles in liver function, blood clotting, and transport of iron.

  • Fibrinogen

    • A soluble plasma glycoprotein that is converted to fibrin by the action of thrombin in the coagulation cascade; involved in blood clotting.

    • Serum contains fibrinogen which is essential for hemostasis.

Hepatobiliary

  • Total Bilirubin

    • Indicates liver function and the breakdown of red blood cells.

    • High levels can signify liver disease or hemolysis.

  • Bile Acids

    • Compounds produced by the liver that are essential for digestion and absorption of fats.

Liver Enzymes

  • Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT)

    • Specific to liver function; elevated levels may indicate liver damage or disease.

  • Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST)

    • Enzyme found in liver and other tissues; elevated levels can indicate liver or muscle damage.

    • Normal range is typically around 360 units.

  • Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP)

    • Enzyme related to liver and bile duct function; elevated levels may indicate bile duct obstruction or liver disease.

  • Gamma-Glutamyltransferase (GGT)

    • Enzyme that indicates liver or biliary disease; often used alongside ALP.

  • Glutamate Dehydrogenase (GLDH)

    • An enzyme specific to the liver; increased levels may indicate hepatocellular damage.

  • Cholesterol

Kidneys and Associated Markers

  • Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN)

    • Measures urea nitrogen in the blood; used to assess kidney function.

  • Creatinine

    • A waste product of muscle metabolism; elevated levels may indicate impaired kidney function.

  • Phosphorus

    • An electrolyte that is important for bone metabolism and energy production; regulated by the kidneys.

  • Symmetric Dimethylarginine (SDMA)

    • A test marker from IDEXX that assesses kidney function; more sensitive than creatinine.

Pancreatic Enzymes and Markers

  • Amylase

    • Enzyme that aids in the digestion of carbohydrates; levels increase in pancreatic inflammation.

  • Lipase

    • Enzyme that helps digest fats; increases commonly in acute pancreatitis.

  • Pancreatic Lipase Immunoreactivity (PLI)

    • A specific test for pancreatic lipase in serum; aids in diagnosing pancreatitis.

  • Trypsin-Like Immunoreactivity (TLI)

    • A test for trypsin in the blood to assess pancreatic function; lower levels may suggest pancreatic insufficiency.

  • Glucose

    • A primary energy source for the body and a critical parameter for metabolic health; deviations can indicate diabetes or other metabolic disorders.