Core topics

Biochemistry

Biochemistry explores the chemical processes within and related to living organisms.
This branch of science combines biology and chemistry, using chemical knowledge and techniques to help understand and solve biological problems.
At its core, biochemistry looks at the molecular mechanisms by which genetic information encoded in DNA is able to result in the processes of life.

Biochemistry is concerned with the breakdown of large, complex molecules into smaller ones, such as amino acids, nucleotides, sugars and fatty acids.
Proteins, which are constructed from amino acids, are considered the workhorse molecules of life; they form enzymes that speed up chemical reactions in the body.
Nucleotides form the basis of the body’s genetic code, encoded in DNA and RNA.
Sugars and fatty acids are the body’s key sources of energy.

Metabolism is a key aspect of biochemistry; it’s all about the chemical reactions in the body that maintain life.
Metabolism is split into two processes: anabolism, which is the building up of compounds, and catabolism, which is the breaking down of compounds.
The Citric Acid Cycle, also known as the Krebs cycle, is a key part of metabolism. It involves the oxidation of acetyl CoA to produce ATP, which provides energy for biological processes.

Proteins are structurally, functionally, and biochemically incredibly diverse, making them key to many biochemical processes.
Enzymes, a particular class of proteins, are crucial for catalysing biochemical reactions.
These biocatalysts lower the activation energy of reactions, increase reaction rates and are highly specific to their substrates.

Biological pigments, or biochromes, are substances produced by living organisms that have a colour due to selective colour absorption.
These pigments play important roles in various biological activities, including photosynthesis in plants and vision in animals.

Vitamins are essential nutrients the body cannot synthesize in sufficient quantities and must be obtained from diet or supplements.
They often work as cofactors or coenzymes, acting together with enzymes to enhance their functions and catalyse metabolic reactions.

DNA and RNA are the macromolecules that carry genetic information in all living cells.
The primary function of DNA is to store and transmit the genetic information that dictates the organization and function of cells.
RNA, on the other hand, translates the genetic information contained within DNA to create the proteins that carry out cellular activities.