Module 1: Introduction to Biochemistry 1.
Metabolic degradation
CHEMISTRY conversion of a substance into an active
study of the composition and properties of metabolite
matter 2. Biotransformation
study of compounds, chemical changes and conversion of a substance to another for
reactions occurring in living system biosynthesis
GENERAL AND INORGANIC CHEMISTRY Excretion
study of elements in the periodic table and an pH and BUFFERS
overview of chemistry in general Dissociation or lonization
ORGANIC CHEMISTRY a process by which a polar compound (contains
study of carbon containing compounds (+) and (-) ions) is broken apart into its
BIOCHEMISTRY - or BIOLOGICAL CHEMISTRY individual lonic components when placed in an
from "BIO" - which means life aqueous solution
MOLECULAR BIOCHEMISTRY occurs in the presence of water.
study of macromolecules and their metabolic Example:
activities in the body. a. POLAR
It includes the entrance in the human body, NaCl -> Na+ CI
digestion, absorption, assimilation, utilization, b. NON-POLAR
integration into the tissues, metabolic C12H22O11
degradation and eventually, excretion from the ELECTROLYTES
body. substances whose water solutions conduct
2 ASPECTS OF BIOCHEMISTRY: electricity
MOLECULAR ANATOMY STRONG ELECTROLYTES
different biomolecules which comprise the cell completely ionized in H2O solutions
MOLECULAR PHYSIOLOGY E.g.
dynamic part of biochemistry which includes strong acids - HCI, HNO3, H2SO4
the functions and metabolic activities of strong bases - NaOH, KOH, Ca(OH)2
biomolecules in the cell. salt solutions - any salt dissolved in water such
Digestion as NaClsol'n&CaFsol'n
Physical - mechanical breakdown WEAK ELECTROLYTES
Chemical - further breakdown with the aid of incompletely or partially lonized in H2O solution
enzymes a large percent remains unionized
Absorption E.g.
passage of end products of digestion from the weak acids - acetic acid
small intestine into the blood weak bases - aniline, ammonia
Assimilation NON-ELECTROLYTES
selective absorption substances whose water solution do not
Utilization conduct electricity
cell is the important unit of life. Hence a large E.g.
number of chemical reactions in the cell utilize dry solids
the nutrients absorbed to produce materials Organic compounds
needed for our existence
Integration
refers to the overlap of many functions of the
systems of the human body, as well as its
accompanied form.
Module 2: pH and Buffers 2. The pOH of the solution is 5.7. Calculate the pH of the
solution?
WATER EQUILIBRIUM / IONIZATION OF WATER
Solution:
Water
14 = pH + pOH
considered as a weak electrolyte. It is
pH = 14 - 5.7
amphoteric and amphiprotic in nature.
pH = 8.3
Amphoteric
can react both as an acid and as a base
3. If the pOH is 4.3. What is the [OH-] concentration?
Amphiprotic
Solution:
a substance that can both accept and donate a
[OH-] = antilog - pOH
proton or H
[OH-] antilog - 4.3
IONIZATION CONSTANT OF WATER OR KW
[OH-] = 5.01 x 10-5
Kw=[H₂O+] [OH-]
Where:
4. What is the pOH of the solution if the [H3O+]
[ ] = Represents concentration either in F concentration is 5.2x10^-3?
(Formality) or in M (Molarity) Solution:
Note: pH = -log (H^3O+)
Use F as a unit if the solute is an element, ion or pH = -log (5.2x10^-3)
compound pH = 2.28
Use M as unit if the solute is a compound only
F = gram/ Formula weight 14 = pH + pOH
M= gram/ Molecular weighted pOH = 14 - 2.28
pH EXPRESSION pOH = 11.72
introduced by a Danish biochemist by the name
of Sorensen 5. If the Ka of an acid is 1.7 x 10^-5, calculate the pka
Formulas: and pkb values of the acid?
Solution:
pKa= -log Ka
pKa= -log 1.7 x 10^-5
pKa = 4.77
14 = pKa + pKb
pKb = 14 - pKa
pkb = 14 - 4.77
pKb = 9.23
BUFFER
a mixture of a weak electrolyte with its salt
Function:
Sample Problems:
1. What is the pH of the solution if the [H3O+] Resist drastic / great / marked change in pH of a
concentration is 5.5x10-4 M? system even upon the addition of either a
Solution: Strong Acid (SA) or Strong Base (SB)
pH = -log (H^3O+) 2 TYPES:
pH = -log (5.5x10^-4) ACID BUFFER - mixture of weak acid + salt of weak acid
pH = 3.26 E.g. HAC +NaAc, (KAc, MgAc^-)
BASE BUFFER - mixture of WB + salt of WB
Eg. WEAK ACIDS OR BASES BUFFER CELLS AND TISSUES
NH^4OH + NH^4C AGAINST PH CHANGES
NH^4OH+NH^4NO3 In cells and tissues, phosphate and bicarbonate
buffer systems maintain intracellular and
NEUTRALIZATION extracellular fluids at their optimum
E.g. base + acid -> salt + water (physiological) pH, which is usually close to pH
NaOH + HCI NaCl + HOH 7.
HOW BUFFERS WORK: Enzymes generally work optimally at this pH.
Buffers work by neutralizing any added acid (H+ The intracellular and extracellular fluids of
ions) or base (OH- ions) to maintain the multicellular organisms have a characteristic
moderate pH, making them a weaker acid or and nearly constant pH.
base. The organism's first line of defense against
ACIDS & BASES: changes in internal pH is provided by buffer
THEORIES systems.
Arrhenius/Ionic theory The cytoplasm of most cells contains high
Acid: Yield H+ in water solution concentrations of proteins, and these proteins
Base: Yield OH- in water solution contain many amino acids with functional
Lewis theory groups that are weak acids or weak bases.
Acid: Electron pair acceptor Sample problems:
Base: Electron pair donor 1. What is the pH of a mixture of 0.042 M NaH2PO4 and
Bronsted-lowry theory or conjugate acid-base pair 0.058 M Na2HPO4? pKa: 6.86
theory Solution:
Acid: Proton donor Though both NaH2PO4 and Na2HPO4 has acidic
Base: Proton acceptor hydrogen but first one has two and second one has one
acidic hydrogen respectively. NaH2PO4 is much more.
Conjugate Base - anion produced from the dissociation acidic than Na2HPO4, hence NaH2PO4 acts as an acid
of acid; removal of hydrogen while Na2HPO4 acts as a salt of NaH2PO4 with a strong
Conjugate Acid - proton hydrogen donor; formed when base NaOH.
it combines with hydrogen pH = pKa + log (conjugate base / acid)
pH = 6.86 + log (0.058 / 0.042)
Ans: 7.0
2. What would be the pH of a 100mL solution
containing 0.24M formic acid (HCHO2; Ka= 1.8x10^-4)
and 0.24M sodium formate (NaCHO2)
Solution:
"Convert Ka to pKa using the formula, pKa= -log Ka
pKa= -log Ka
HENDERSON-HASSELBACH EQUATION pKa= -log 1.8x10^-4
The pH of a solution of a weak acid (or base) pKa = 3.74
and its salt is given by the Henderson- pH = pKa + log (conjugate base / acid)
Hasselbalch equation: pH 3.74 + log (0.24/0.24)
Ans: 3.74
3. What would be the pH of a 100mL solution TYPES OF ACIDOSIS:
containing 0.15M formic acid (HCHO2; Ka= 1.8x10^-4) Metabolic Acidosis
and 0.15M sodium formate (NaCHO2)? occurs when there is excessive loss of bases,
Solution: such as bicarbonate (HCOs) or sodium
Convert Ka to pKa using the formula, pKa= -log Ka due to a decrease in blood HCO
pKa= -log Ka CAUSES:
pKa= -log 1.8x10^-4 severe ketosis & Diabetes Mellitus (DKA)
pKa = 3.74 Eclampsia
pH = pKa + log (conjugate base / acid) High lipid diet
pH 3.74+ log (0.15/0.15) Urinuria
Ans: 3.74 TREATMENT:
Administration of sodium bicarbonate along
Module 3: Acidosis and Alkalosis with fluids and other electrolytes
Metabolic acidosis can be compensated
Normal blood pH: 7.35-7.45
through intravenous
Factors Affecting Blood pH:
Respiratory Acidosis (hypoventilation)
Nature of diet
associated with an increased level of CO2 in the
a. Proteins, fats, ketogenic substances
blood, occurring when there is interference
Tend to acidify blood pH
with respiratory gas exchange
Presence of SO4^=, PO4, H+ (acids)
carbon dioxide combines with water to form
b. Fruits and vegetables
carbonic acid (H2CO3)
Tend to alkalinize blood pH
carbonic acid can dissociate into hydrogen ions,
Na, K, Mg, Ca, OH (bases)
which will lower the pH of the blood (acidosis)
Vigorous Exercise
CAUSES:
Tend to acidify blood pH
depression to respiration
Conversion of ATP to lactic acid leading to
obstruction to respiration
muscular cramps.
TREATMENT:
ACIDOSIS and ALKALOSIS
Respiratory Acidosis can be compensated
metabolic disturbances in the acid-base balance
through suction of H2CO3 or through oxygen
of the body.
tanks
ACIDOSIS
Acidosis can be compensated through:
condition in which the acidity of body fluids &
Increase production of ammonia in the kidney
tissues is abnormally high
Increase excretion of acids by the kidneys.
due to a decrease in normal blood pH
Increase excretion of H2CO3 through the lungs
major physiological effect in general:
ALKALOSIS
depression of the CNS through depression of
condition in which the alkalinity of body fluids
synaptic transmission
and tissues is abnormally high.
Gaseous acidosis - more than the normal
This arises because of a failure of the
amount of CO2 is retained in the body. E.g.
mechanisms that usually maintain a balance
drowning
between alkalis and acids in the arterial blood.
Renal acidosis - kidney failure results in
associated with loss of acid through vomiting or
excessive loss of bicarbonate or retention of
excessive sodium bicarbonate intake
phosphoric and sulfuric acids
due to an increase in blood pH
Patients with diabetes mellitus have a form of
acidosis in which sodium, potassium and ketone
bodies are lost in the urine
major physiological effects: over excitability of Failure to determine the presence of adequate
the CNS through facilitation of synaptic collateral circulation could result in severe
transmission ischemic injury to the hand if damage to the
TYPES OF ALKALOSIS radial artery occurs with arterial puncture.
Metabolic Alkalosis The nurse first would explain the procedure to
is usually associated with excessive loss of the client.
potassium and chloride To perform the test, the nurse applies direct
due to an increase in blood HCO3 pressure over the client's ulnar and radial
CAUSES: arteries simultaneously.
overdosage of alkaline drugs While applying pressure, the nurse asks the
excessive loss of gastric HCI due to persistent client to open and close the hand repeatedly;
vomiting or severe vomiting (Cl^- loss) or the the hand should blanch.
use of diuretics except acetazolamides. The nurse then releases pressure from the ulnar
diarrhea (K^+) artery while compressing the radial artery and
Respiratory Alkalosis assesses the color of the extremity distal to the
produced by hyperventilation (salicylate pressure point.
poisoning or artificial respirator) which lowers If pinkness fails to return within 6 to 7 seconds,
the CO₂ level of the blood the ulnar artery is insufficient, indicating that
due to a decrease in blood H2COs due to the radial artery should not be used for
hyperventilation obtaining a blood specimen.
breathing that is abnormally deep in relation to Finally, the nurse documents the findings. Other
the amount of physical exercise may lead sites can be used if the radial artery is not
alkalosis which may produce symptoms of deemed adequate, such as the brachial or
muscular weakness or cramps femoral artery.
Alkalosis can be compensated through:
Decrease production of ammonia by the Respiratory acid-base Imbalance
kidneys. Remember that the respiratory function
Decrease excretion of acids by the kidney indicator is the Pco2.
Decrease excretion of H2CO3 through the lungs
In a respiratory imbalance, you will find an
opposite relationship between the pH and the
In interpreting the ABG results, remember ROME - Pco2; in other words, the pH will be elevated
Respiratory - Opposite / Metabolic - Equal with a decreased Pco2 (alkalosis) or the pH will
be decreased with an elevated Pco2 (acidosis).
Collection of an arterial blood gas specimen
Look at the pH and the Pco2 to determine
1. Obtain vital signs.
whether the condition is a respiratory problem.
2. Determine whether the client has an arterial
Respiratory acidosis: The pH is decreased; the Pco2 is
line in place (allows for arterial blood sampling
elevated.
without further puncture to the client).
Respiratory alkalosis: The pH is elevated; the Pco2 is
3. Perform the Allen's test to determine the
decreased.
presence of collateral circulation"
Metabolic acid-base imbalance
Remember, the metabolic function indicator is
The Allen's test is performed before obtaining
the bicarbonate ion. In a metabolic imbalance,
an arterial blood specimen from the radial
there is a corresponding relationship between
artery to determine the "presence of collateral
the pH and the HCO3; in other words, the pH
circulation and the adequacy of the ulnar
will be elevated and the will be elevated
artery.
(alkalosis), or the pH will be decreased and Base excess - primarily reflects the
there will be decreased (acidosis). concentration of bicarbonate and is affected
Look at the pH and the to determine whether only by metabolic processes; positive values
the condition is a metabolic problem. reflect matabolic alkalosis and negative values
Metabolic acidosis: The pH is decreased; the HCO3 is reflect metabolic acidosis.
decreased.
Metabolic alkalosis: The pH is elevated; the HCO3 is
elevated. Module 4: Cell: The Basic Unit of Life
In a respiratory imbalance, the arterial blood
CELL - the functional and structural units of life
gas (ABG) result indicates an opposite
Robert Hooke
relationship between the pH and the Pco2. In a
He used a microscope to examine cork (plant)
metabolic imbalance, the ABG result indicates a
"Cytology: Study of cell
corresponding relationship between the pH and
Robert Brown
the bicarbonate.
Discovered the nucleus in1883
Compensation
Matthias Schleiden
refers to the body processes that occur to
All plants are composed of cells
counterbalance the acid-base disturbance
Theodor Schwann
Discovered that animals are made up of cells
Rudolf Virchow
He observed under a microscope that cells are
dividing. He concluded That cells come only
from other cells preexisting cells. His theory
now debunked the spontaneous generation
theory
Prokaryotic Cell VS. Eukaryotic Cell
(Zoom In to see clearly) PROKARYOTES
Greek "prenucleus"
DNA not enclosed within a membrane
DNA is usually a singular circularly chromosome
DNA not associated with histones
Lack membrane bound organelles
Cell walls contain polysaccharide peptidoglycan
Divide by binary fission
EUKARYOTES
DNA is found in a nucleus and enclosed in
pH - identifies the presence of acidemia or
nuclear membrane
alkatemia.
DNA found in multiple chromosomes
Po2 - pressure exerted by oxygen dissolved in
Histones with DNA
the plasma.
Membrane bound organelles
Pco2 - pressure of dissolved CO2, gas in the
Cell walls chemically simple
blood.
Mitosis
HCO – bicarbonate. Differences of Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic:
O2 saturation - percentage of oxygen that Prokaryotic
hemoglobin is carrying related to the total Nucleoid
amount the hemoglobin could carry. Circular DNA that floats freely around cell
Simpler DNA
No membrane bound organelles
Typically much smaller Chromosomes - linear strands of chromatin
Divide by binary fission material that contains the genes
Typically unicellular Genes carriers of hereditary traits
Anaerobic and aerobic Traits physical or non-physical characteristics
Eukaryotic handed down from parent to offspring from
Nucleus generation to generation
Linear DNA that is held in the nucleus Dominant trait - is when trait is manifested or is
Complex DNA present in every generation
Membrane bound organelles Recessive trait - when trait may skip a
Typically much larger generation and only to reappear in future
Divide by mitosis and meiosis generation
Typically multicellular PARTS OF THE CELL:
Aerobic Nucleus
Similarities of Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic: Cytoplasm
Chromosomes NUCLEUS
DNA as genetic material ovoid, oval or circular
Ribosomes "master control of the cell"
Cytoplasm it is centrally located, one nucleus is present for
Plasma Membrane every cell
Sometimes have cell walls it regulates, controls and modifies all the
Vacuoles metabolic activities of the cell-shoul
Plant Cell VS Animal Cell CYTOPLASM
PLANT CELL All of the parts of the protoplasm excluding
Plant cells are larger than animal cells. nucleus. It includes:
The plasma membrane of a plant cell is Cytoplasmic organelles - living structure found
surrounded by a rigid cell of cellulose. within the cytoplasm which are directly
Plastids are present. involved in the metabolic activities of the cell
Most mature plant cells have a large central sap Inclusion bodies-inert, non-living structures
vacuole. ORGANELLES:
Plant cells have many simpler units of and Cell membrane
prominent Golgi apparatus. Functions:
Plant cells lack centrosomes and centrioles. Protection
ANIMAL CELL Limits the territorial boundaries of the cell
Animal cells are generally small in size. Gives the cell a definite shape and size
Cell wall is absent. Serves as a semi-permeable membrane which
Except the protozoan Euglena no animal cell selectively allows diffusion of substances in and
possesses plastids. out of the cell
Vacuoles in animal cells are many and small. Mitochondria
Animal cells have a single highly complex Golgi. "powerhouse of the cell"
Animal cells have centrosome and centrioles. Generates ATP from substances coming from
2 TYPES OF CELLS: CHO, CHON and fats
Autosomes or Somatic cells - body cells Endoplasmic reticulum
Eg. Liver cells, brain cells A network of tubes, tubules, microtubules
Germ cells or Sex cells which act as circulatory and excretory systems
Eg. Sperm cells, egg cells of the cell
It is where substances pass through Storage form of carbohydrate is glycogen which
a. Smooth or agranular - transport cell products undergo glycogenolysis to give glucose from
other than proteins which ATP is subsequently produced
b. Rough or granular - transport proteins coming FATS
from ribosomes. Second source of energy
Golgi apparatus Stored in the form of triglycerides in adipose
Act as temporary storage "depot" of cellular tissues
products Provides elasticity to the cell
Ribosomes. PROTEINS (CHON)
Masses made up of RNA Give strength to cell membrane; NOT stored in
Attached to the ER the same manner as CHOand fats; provides
Template of protein synthesis. tensile strength and elasticity to the cell
It is where amino acids are joined by bonds to ELECTROLYTES
form a protein Charged particles, either cation (+) or anion (-)
Lysosomes Main intracellular (+) is K+
Contain very potent or hydrolytic enzymes Main extracellular (+) is Na+
which are responsible for digesting food in the Main intracellular (-) is PO4^-3
cell Main extracellular (-) is Cl-
Vacuoles
Space occupied by water or fluid CELL ORGANELLES - subunits of the cell
Functions: CELL ORGANELLE
Temporary dumping site for cellular garbage or Nucleus
debris Nucleic acids, proteins, lipids
Storage of food - CHO, fats Manufacture of nucleic acids
Centrosome Nucleoli
Small, rounded chromatin bodies attached to RNA, proteins
the nuclear membrane Manufacture of RNA and proteins
Regulates reproduction or division of cells Ribosomes
COMPONENTS OF THE CYTOPLASM: RNA, proteins
WATER Manufacture of proteins
Most abundant compound of cytoplasm Lysosome
Fluid medium to which all chemical reactions of Proteins Eg. enzyme
the cell take place Defense
Aqueous solution or medium of excretion of Membranes
waste matter Lipids, proteins, carbohydrates
Water content the cytoplasm determines the Regulatory
size and shape of the cell Golgi apparatus
Isotonic solutions -0.9% NaCl, no effect on the Proteins, carbohydrates, lipids
cell Packing, transport, CHO synthesis
Hypotonic solutions <0.9% NaCl, swell of cells Mitochondria
(hemolysis) Proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, nucleic acids,
Hypertonic solutions >0.9% NaCl, shrinkage of coenzyme
cells (crenation) Oxidation reaction, electron transport
CARBOHYDRATES (CHO)
Main source of fuel or energy for the metabolic
activities of the cell
Module 5: Amino Acids destroying the basic property and allowing
AMINO ACIDS the carboxyl to assert itself freely
Building blocks/stones of proteins Subsequent titration with standard alkali
Fundamental sub-units of proteins measures the amount of the free carboxyl
Carboxyl group - acidic properties groups.
Amino group - basic properties Basis of Sorensen test
Chiral C - asymmetric carbon 6. Amino acids form acyl halides
PROPERTIES: The amino group is previously protected by
Physical: acetylation.
White crystalline substances The protecting (-CO-CHs) group may
Soluble in cold water, except cysteine and subsequently be removed by using HCI
tyrosine which are more soluble in hot water 7. By heating with barium hydroxide, primary
Insoluble in alcohol and ether except proline amines are formed due to the breaking off the
and hydroxyproline carboxyl group with formation of CO2
All amino acids except proline are precipitated 8. When amino acids are dehydrated, they unite
off from their solutions by alcohol, but not by with each other forming a ring,
(NH4)2SO4 or NaCl diketopiperazine
Most of them are sweet like glycine, alanine, On boiling with HCI, diketopiperazine yields
serine and proline, others like leucine are dipeptide
tasteless; while some are bitter like arginine Fischer utilized this process in synthesizing
CHEMICAL: polypeptides from amino acids
1. Amino acids are amphoteric due to the CHARACTERISTICS:
presence of both carboxyl and amino groups as 1. Optically active
mentioned above. As such they form crystalline All amino acids are optically active except
salts with metallic bases and with mineral acids glycine ( its side chain is a hydrogen atom)
2. Form esters with alcohol - by fractional Due to the presence of chiral/asymmetric
distillation carbon
3. Amino acids can be acetylated, benzylated or Ability to rotate the plane p,arized light in a
methylated in the presence of acetic acid, polarimeter
benzoic acid or methyl group, respectively. a. dextrorotatory (+) - plane polarized light shifted
These reactions occur in the body during to the right
detoxication processes b. levorotatory (+) - plane polarized light shifted to
4. All amino acids except proline and the left
hydroxyproline react with nitrous acid with the 2. Amphoteric / ampholyte
liberation of nitrogen gas. Can act as an acid (proton donor) & as a base
This is the principle involved in Van Slyke (proton acceptor)
method for determining amino groups in COOH-proton donor (acid)
proteins, blood and other biological NH2-proton acceptor (base)
substances 3. Zwitterion / dipolar ion
5. FORMALDEHYDE REACTION: When an excess of Possesses both a positive or negative ion
neutral formaldehyde is added to neutral amino Acidity is due to TT electron delocalization. The
acid solution, a distinctly acid mixture is OH bond in COOH weakens so it is readily/easily
produced given off or lost as a proton and is accepted by
The hydrogens of the amine group are the lone pair in NH
replaced by a methylene group thus
4. Isoelectric Point (pl)
The pH value at which zwitterion state exists at E. AROMATIC AMINO ACIDS (NON-POLAR)
a maximum Phenylalanine (phe)
Amino acids & proteins assume a zero net Tyrosine (tyr)
charge Tryptophan (trp)
Amino acids & proteins are least soluble
No integration in an electric field F. SULFUR-CONTAINING AMINO ACIDS
Above pl: favors anionic state Methionine (meth)
Below pl: favors cationic state Cysteine (Cys or cys1)
Eg. Isoelectric Point (pl): Cystine (Cys or Cys2)
Asp - 2.8
Glu - 3.2 G. HYDROXY-CONTAINING AMINO ACIDS
Ser - 5.7 Serine
Val - 6 Threonine
ala - 6.1
lys - 9.7 H. IMINO ACIDS - not an amino acid because of the
arg - 10.8 absence of NH2 but only NH
IMPORTANCE OF pl: Proline (pro)
Used in buffer systems Hydroxyproline (hpr)
For separation & identification purposes - since
each amino acid has its distinct pl I. ALIPHATIC R-GROUP (NON-POLAR)
Show structural changes in globular CHON- the Glycine
explanation of structures of biological reactions Alanine
5. ACID-BASE PROPERTY Proline
ACIDIC Valine
BASIC Leucine
CLASSIFICATION OF AMINO ACIDS: Isoleucine
ACCORDING TO R-GROUP Methionine
A. NEUTRAL OR STRAIGHT CHAIN AMINO ACIDS:
(POLAR) A. ESSENTIAL / INDISPENSABLE AMINO ACIDS
Glycine (gly) Those which cannot be synthesized in the body
Alanine (ala) Must be provided in the diet
Primarily concerned with growth and
B. BRANCHED CHAIN AMINO ACIDS: maintenance of life
Valine (val) These are:
Leucine (leu) Phenylalanine
lsoleucine (ile) Valine
Threonine
C. ACIDIC AMINO ACIDS: (POLAR) Tryptophan
Aspartic acid (asp) Histidine
Glutamic acid (glu) Isoleucine
Methionine
D. BASIC AMINO ACIDS (POLAR) Arginine
Lysine (lys) Leucine
Histidine (his) Lysine
Arginine (arg)
B. NON-ESSENTIAL/DISPENSABLE AMINO ACIDS During metabolism, part of the carbon skeleton
Those which can be produced in the body of these amino acids will enter the ketogenic
These are: pathway and the other part to glucogenic
Glycine pathway
Norleucine These are:
Glutamic acid Isoleucine
Citruline Phenylalanine
Alanine Threonine
Tyrosine Tyrosine
Hydroxyglutamic acid Tryptophan
Proline
Serine C. Purely glucogenic
Cysteine are purely glucogenic as they enter only into the
Aspartic acid glucogenic pathway which provides a substrate
Hydroxyroline for gluconeogenesis.
These are:
C. CONDITIONALLY ESSENTIAL AMINO ACIDS All the remaining 14 amino acids
When a person is suffering from a moderate to
severe chronic illness, person may lose the OTHER USES:
ability to manufacture enough non-essential Arginine - essential in spermatogenesis
amino acids and thus require supplementation. Glutamic acid - has been widely studied for its
Problems with digestion will also necessitate effect in raising the general intelligence level of
supplementation of "non-essential" amino subnormal patients
acids. Used for the treatment of psychomotor and
These amino acids are normally non-essential, petit mal attacks
but become essential during times of Glycine: Simplest amino acid and has is sweet in
physiological stress. Then these amino acids taste.
have to be taken in food or through Inhibitory amino acid neurotransmitters (IAA):
supplements GABA, glycine, B-alanine, Taurine
These are: Excitatory amino acid neurotransmitters: L-
Arginine glutamate, L-Aspartate, L-cysteine, and L-
Glycine Homocysteine
Cysteine
Tyrosine
Proline
Glutamine
Taurine
A. Purely Ketogenic
because it is converted to ketone bodies
These are:
Leucine
Lysine
B. Ketogenic and Glucogenic
are partially ketogenic and partially glucogenic.
Module 6: Proteins C. GLUTELINS
PROTEINS Soluble in dilute acids and alkalies but insoluble
Came from the Greek word "PROTEIOS" in neutral solvents
meaning "pre-eminence" or of first importance Examples:
Most important macromolecule c.1. glutenin - wheat
Organic compounds of high molecular weight c.2. oryzenin - rice
(macromolecular) made up of many amino
acids joined together by means of peptide D. PROLAMINES
linkages. Insoluble in ordinary solvent but soluble in 70%
Peptide bond is a covalent bond and can be alcohol at about neutral point
dipeptide, tripeptide, tetrapeptide, and Not coagulable by heat
oligopeptide. T Present in plants such as:
Made up of C, H, O, N; usually S and traces of d.1. gliadin-wheat
Fe, Cu, I, Mn, Zn etc. d.2. zein corn
Litmus paper: red - blue d.3. hordein- barley
CLASSIFICATION OF PROTEINS:
According to hydrolysis products: E. HISTONES
SIMPLE PROTEINS Soluble in water, dilute acids and alkalies but
These are true proteins found abundantly in not in dilute ammonia
both plants and animals plucort Not readily coagulated by heat
On hydrolysis with enzymes they yield a-amino Strongly basic and occur in the tissues in the
acids and their derivatives form of salt combinations with acid substances
EXAMPLES: like the heme of the hemoglobin
A. ALBUMINS Examples;
Soluble in water and dilute neutral salt solutions e.1. globin-hemoglobin
They are conjugated by heat and precipitated e.2. thymus histone
by full saturation with (NH4)2SO4 but not with e.3. scobrone-mackerel
NaCl except in the presence of acid
Members of this group are: F. PROTAMINES
a.1. serum albumin-blood Contain small number of amino acids
a.2. lactalbumin-milk Soluble in water and dilute acids and alkalies
a.3. ovalbumin- egg white Not coagulated by heat
Strongly basic and form soluble salts with
B. GLOBULINS strong mineral acids
Soluble in neutral dilute salt solutions but not in Example:
water 1.1. salmin-salmon sperm
Coagulated by heat and can be precipitated
from their solutions by half saturation with G. SCLEROPROTEINS (Albuminoids)
(NH4)2SO4 and complete saturation with NaCI Soluble in water and neutral solvents
Members of this group are: Example
b.1. ovoglobulin- egg white g.1. keratin - epidermal tissues
b.2. edestin-hempseed 9.2. elastin - ligaments
b.3. legumin peas 9.3. collagen - hides, bones and cartilages
b.4. myosinogen-muscles CONJUGATED PROTEINS
b.5. serum globulin – blood Made up of protein molecules combined with
non-protein groups
EXAMPLES:
A. NUCLEOPROTEINS TWO DIVISIONS OF DERIVED PROTEINS:
Combination of histones and protamines with PRIMARY PROTEIN DERIVATIVES
nucleic acids Have undergone slight intramolecular
Soluble in dilute solutions of NaCl and can be rearrangement through the hydrolytic action of
extracted from the tissues by the use of this certain physical and chemical agents
solvent Synonymous with denatured proteins
Precipitated by acidification EXAMPLES:
Typical of this group are: A. PROTEANS
a.1. chromatins- obtained from grandular Are insoluble substances resulting from the
tissues and germ of grains preliminary action of water, dilute acids or
enzymes
B. GLYCOPROTEINS Examples:
Compounds of proteins with a carbohydrate a.1. myosann- myosin
component a.2. edestan-edestin
Utilized for lubricating purposes in view if their
slimy nature B. METAPROTEANS
Not digested by the enzymes of the GIT Are products of further hydrolysis
Help in protecting the membranes of the tract Soluble in weak acids and alkalies but insoluble
against digestion in neutral salt solution
Examples: Examples:
b.1. mucin-saliva b.1. acid metaproteans- acid albuminate
b.2. tendomucoid-tendons b.2. alkali metaproteans - alkali albuminate
b.3. osseomucoid-bones
C. COAGULATED PROTEINS
C. PHOSPHOPROTEINS Insoluble products resulting from either the
Have the prosthetic group (H3PO4) joined to action of heat, alcohol, ultraviolet rays or even
the protein molecule simple mechanical shaking
Examples: Examples: cooked egg albumin, cooked meat
c.1. casein-milk
c.2. vitelin - egg yolk SECONDARY PROTEIN DERIVATIVES
Products of more extensive hydrolysis
D. CHROMOPROTEINS Mixtures of fragments of original protein
Protein compounds with hematin or similar varying in composition and size
pigments in their molecules Soluble in water and non-coagulability by heat
Examples are: hemoglobin, cytochromes and EXAMPLES:
rhodopsin A. PRIMARY PROTEOSES
Soluble in water
E. LIPOPROTEINS Precipitated by conc. HNO, and by half
Have fatty substances combined with their saturation with (NH4)2SO4 of ZnSO4
molecules like lecithin, cephalin etc. Not coagulated by heat
Present in the blood serum, brain tissues, cell
nuclei, egg yolk and milk B. SECONDARY PROTEOSES
DERIVED Precipitated only by complete saturation with
Include substances formed from simple and ammonium sulfate but not with nitric acid or
conjugated proteins picric acid
for mechanical strength of bones
C. PEPTONES KERATIN
Soluble in water hair
Not coagulated by heat and not precipitated by
saturation with ammonium sulfate but by 5. PROTECTION PROTEINS
certain alkaloidal reagents such as "natural defense proteins
phosphotungstic and tannic acids EXAMPLE:
Antibodies
D. PEPTIDES
Are combinations of two or more amino acids, 6. CATALYTIC PROTEINS
the carboxyl group of one being united with the used to catalyze blochemical reactions
amino group of the other EXAMPLE:
Examples are: di, tri, tetra, penta and poly Enzymes
peptides
7. CHEMICAL MESSENGERS
II. ACCORDING TO BIOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE hormonal action
1. TRANSPORT PROTEINS EXAMPLE:
carry/circulate small molecules and ions Hormone - internally secreted compounds that
EXAMPLES: affect the functions of organs and tissues when
A. HEMOGLOBIN transported by the body fluids
carries 02 from lungs to other tissues. Almost all of the compounds in the body are
B. SERUM ALBUMIN protein in nature
distribute fatty acids between fat tissues and
other organs ACCORDING TO CONFORMATION/SHAPE:
2. STORAGE PROTEINS A. FIBROUS
store small molecules and ions Polypeptide chains are arranged tightly parallel
EXAMPLES: fibers and sheets
A. OVALBUMIN Forms the structural framework of the body
used to store amino acids used as nutrients by Insoluble in H2O
chicken embryos found in eggs EXAMPLES:
B. FERRETIN a. Collagen-most important protein in human
"liver protein" connective tissue
Store Fe in humans and other animals. Insoluble in H20 but maybe boiled to form a
Source: liver digestive, coagulate protein called "GELATIN"
b. Elastin-similar to collagen but cannot be converted
3. CONTRACTILE PROTEIN to gelatin
conduction of nerve impulses Formed in arteries, ligaments, tendons and
Muscular motion and coordination of motion dermis of skin
EXAMPLE: c. Keratin insoluble, indigestible, fibrous protein
A. myosin + muscle protein for contraction Major component of hair, nails and feathers
4. STRUCTURAL PROTEIN B. GLOBULAR
provide mechanical support and structure Polypeptides are arranged in compact spherical
EXAMPLES: forms
COLLAGEN Soluble in water
EXAMPLES: Valine - valyl
Antibodies, Enzymes Histidine - histidyl
Cysteine - cysteyl
C. MIXED Leucine - leucyl
Resembles fibrous protein in terms of strength Arginine - arginyl
Cystine - cystyl
Isoleucine - isoleucyl
Module 7: Peptides, Protein Structures and Serine - seryl
Denaturation Phenylalanine - phenylalanyl
Aspartic acid - aspartyl
PEPTIDE BONDS
Tyrosine - Tyrosyl
Are chains of amino acid.
Threonine - threonyl
Two amino acid molecules can be covalently
joined through a substituted amide linkage,
CHARACTERISTICS OF PEPTIDE BOND
termed a peptide bond to yield a dipeptide.
The peptide bond is a partial double bond.
Such a linkage is formed by removal of the
The C-N bond is 'trans' in nature and there is no
elements of water (dehydration) from the alpha
freedom of rotation because of the partial
carboxyl group of one amino acid and the
double bond character.
alpha-amino group of another
The distance is 1.32A which is midway between
Peptide bond formation is an example of a
single bond (1.49A) and double bond (1.27A).
condensation reaction, a common of reactions
The side chains are free to rotate on either side
in living cells.
of the peptide bond.
Three amino acids can be joined by two peptide
The angles of rotation, known as Ramachandran
bonds to form a tripeptide; similarly, four amino
angles, therefore determine the spatial
acids can be linked to form a tetrapeptide, five
orientation of the peptide chain. (Dr GN
to form a pentapeptide, and so forth.
Ramachandran did pioneering work on the
When a few amino acids are joined in this
structural aspects of proteins during 1950s and
fashion, the structure is called an oligopeptide.
1960s).
When many amino acids are joined, the product
is called a polypeptide.
PROPERTIES OF PROTEINS:
Although the terms "protein" and "polypeptide"
I. PHYSICAL
are sometimes used interchangeably, molecules
Generally, CHON are colorless, odorless and
referred to as polypeptides generally have
tasteless except protein hydrolyzates
molecular weights below 10,000, and those
Varied solubility in solvents such as acids, bases
called proteins have higher molecular weights.
and salt solutions
Form colloidal dispersion, thus do not pass
NAMING A PEPTIDE:
through membranes
Change the ending of the 1st succeeding amino
Molecular weights of some of the proteins are:
acids into -yl but retain the name of the last
Insulin (5,700); Hemoglobin (68,000); Albumin
amino acid
(69,000); Immunoglobulins (1,50,000);
These are:
Those of low molecular weight are soluble in
Glycine - glycyl
H₂O
Glutamic acid - glutamyl
Those of high MW are macromolecular are
Tryptophan - tryptophyl
totally insoluble in water
Alanine - alanyl
Shape of the proteins also vary. Thus, Insulin is
Lysine - lysyl
globular, Albumin is oval in shape, while
Methionine - methionine
Fibrinogen molecule is elongated. Bigger and Insulin is an example of protein with primary
elongated molecules will increase the viscosity level of organization. It has two polypeptide
of the solution. chain. The Chain A (Glycine Chain) has 21 amino
I. CHEMICAL PROPERTIES acids, and Chain B (Phenylalanine) chain has 30
Observed when there are changes in chemical amino acids.
composition
A. Amphoteric / ampholyte 2 CHARACTERISTICS OF A PEPTIDE LINKAGE:
Possess both a positive and negative ion 1. A strong bond - due to the electron
Due to the presence of -COOH (proton donor) delocalization towards the carbonyl group
Due to the presence of -NH2 (proton acceptor) 2. Exhibit geometric isomerism
Are generally good buffers Cis isomer - both above or both below; both left
B . Proteins are precipitated by: or both right
a. Organic acids Trans isomer - 1 above and 1 below; 1 left and 1
Eg. Trichloroaceticacid, Phosphomolybdic acid, right
b. Inorganic acids Due to the restricted rotation in the double
c. Salts of heavy metals bond, groups attached to C and N may be
Eg. CuSO4, Pb(Ac)2, HgCl2, projected side
Salts of Copper, Zinc, Lead, Cadmium and
Mercury are toxic, because they tend to 1. SECONDARY STRUCTURE (2°)
precipitate normal proteins of the Involves folding of polypeptide chains due to it -
gastrointestinal wall. Based on this principle, boding of peptide bonds
raw egg is sometimes used as an antidote for refers to particularly stable arrangements of
mercury poisoning. amino acid residues giving rise to recurring
d. Alkaloidal reagents structural patterns.
reagents of plant origin the steric relationship of amino acids, close to
Eg. Tannic acid, Picric acid, Sulfosalicylic acid, each other.
Tungstic acid, Phosphotungstic acid,
e. High concentration of a neutral salt solution or 2 TYPES OF SECONDARY STRUCTURE:
"salting out" A. ALPHA HELIX
Process which leads to the destruction of the formed due to intramolecular H bonding
destruction of the 4 levels of organization of the helix is held by hydrogen bonds between
CHON the oxygen atom in a carbonyl group of one
As a general rule, higher the molecular weight amino acid and the hydrogen atom of the
of a protein, the salt required for precipitation amino group that is just four amino acid units
is lesser. farther along the chain.
f. Alcohol (powerful protein precipitating agent) Proline and glycine disrupt the regularity of the
alpha helical backbone conformation.
LEVELS OF ORGANIZATION OF CHON: It is the most common and stable conformation
1. PRIMARY STRUCTURE (1°) for a polypeptide chain.
Linear arrangement of amino acid in a It is a spiral structure.
polypeptide chain joined together by means of It is generally right-handed. Left handed alpha
peptide linkages nap helix is rare, because amino acids found in
Denotes the number and sequence of amino proteins are of L-variety, which exclude left
acids in the protein. handedness. Proline and hydroxyproline will not
The higher level of organizations are decided by allow the formation of alpha helix.
the primary structure.
INTRAMOLECULAR regulatory protein which regulates intracellular
within the molecules / peptides calcium level.
B. BETA- PLEATED SHEAT
due to intermolecular H bonding 3. QUATERNARY STRUCTURE
the pleats are formed by similar hydrogen Most complex aspect of protein strand
bonds between continuous sequences of Involves polypeptide chains tightly woven with
carbonyl and amino groups that are further each other
separated on the backbone of the polypeptide results when the proteins consist of two or
chain more polypeptide chains held together by
Represented by dotted lines noncovalent forces
INTERMOLECULAR It is stabilized by relatively weak interactions.
between different peptide Hemoglobin is an example of protein with
H-BOND quaternary structure.
a weak bond due to the weak attraction
between a a+H and lone pairs of an atom DENATURATION OF PROTEINS
Destruction of the secondary, tertiary and
2 FORMS OF H-BOND: quaternary structures of CHON leading to
INTRAMOLECULAR H-BOND changes in its physical, chemical and biological
within the molecule characteristics
INTERMOLECULAR H-BOND Involves transformation of a well-defined folded
different compounds are involved either similar structure of a protein formed under
or non-identical physiological conditions, to an unfolded state
under non-physiological condition.
2. TERTIARY STRUCTURE
Furthermore unfolding of polypeptide chains 2 TYPES OF DENATURATING AGENTS:
due to formation of bonds like H-bond, peptide
bond, covalent bond, disulfide bond, ionic bond, 1. PHYSICAL
and hydrophobic interactions. Includes heat, UV rays, high pressure
denotes the overall arrangement and inter- Many human proteins denature at temperature
relationship of the various regions, or domains above about 45°C, which is one reason that
of a single polypeptide chain. humans cannot withstand high fever or
denotes three dimensional structure of the exposure to high temperature for a long time.
whole protein. Heat can be used to disrupt hydrogen bonds
defines the steric relationship of amino acids and non-polar hydrophobic interactions. This
which are far apart from each other in the occurs because heat increases the kinetic
linear sequence, but are close in the three- energy and causes the molecules to vibrate so
dimensional aspect. rapidly and violently that the bonds are
The process by which a polypeptide chain disrupted.
assumes a large-scale, three-dimensional shape Medical supplies and Instruments are sterilized
is called protein folding. by heating to denature proteins in bacteria and
Domain is the term used to denote a compact thus destroy the bacteria.
globular functional unit of a protein 2. CHEMICAL
The arrangements of the tertiary structure Acids, bases, organic solvents, heavy metals,
elements in a protein form a "fold". A typical detergents
example is calmodulin, the calcium binding Changes:
a. Physical- increased viscosity
b. Chemical-decreased solubility
c. Biological- increased digestibility by enzymes A. Hydrolysis
(loss of hormonal and antigenic action) By acids, bases and protein - splitting enzyme
(proteinase/protease)
Strong acids and bases change the pH of the Opposite of peptide formation
solution containing proteins and therefore
change the ionization of acidic and basic side Example:
chains, leading to disruption of ionic bonds. Protein
Heavy metals, because they are charged, also Proteoses
bind to charged side chains, disrupting salt Peptones
bridges (ionic bonds). Polypeptides
A 70% alcohol solution is used as a disinfectant Dipeptides
on the skin. This concentration of alcohol is able Amino acids
to penetrate the bacterial cell wall and
denature the proteins and enzymes inside of Advantages of Protein Denaturation
the cell. The study of denaturation of protein helps in
Alcohol denatures proteins by disrupting the the field of proteomics.
side chain intramolecular hydrogen bonding. To determine the concentration of protein in
Heavy metal salts act to denature proteins in any given food samples.
much the same manner as acids and bases. Denatured proteins are easily digested in the stomach
Heavy metal salts usually contain Hg2, Pb2, Ag" as compared to undenatured proteins.
TI, Cd2 and other metals with high atomic
weights.
This reaction is used for its disinfectant
properties in external applications. For
example, AgNO3 is used to prevent gonorrhea
infections in the eyes of new born infants.
Silver nitrate is also used in the treatment of
nose and throat infections, as well as to
cauterize wounds. This same reaction is used in
reverse in cases of acute heavy metal poisoning.
In such a situation, a person may have
swallowed a significant quantity of a heavy
metal salt.
As an antidote, a protein such as milk or egg
whites may be administered to precipitate the
poisonous salt. Then an emetic is given to
induce vomiting so that the precipitated metal
protein is discharged from the body.
Detergents are amphipatic in nature and
proteins have hydrophobic and hydrophilic
sides, the detergent is attracted to these and
forces the protein apart and denatures the
proteins.
An alkylating agent cannot denature protein
such as iodoacetic acid.