Biochemistry

Definition

Biochemistry is the study of chemical processes within and related to living organisms. It combines biology and chemistry to understand cellular and molecular mechanisms.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Enzymes are biocatalysts that speed up biochemical reactions in microbial cells.
2. Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) is the primary energy currency in microbial metabolism.
3. Carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids are the four main types of organic molecules essential for microbial life.
4. Microbial fermentation processes can produce ethanol, lactic acid, and other byproducts under anaerobic conditions.
5. The structure and function of microbial cell membranes depend heavily on lipid composition.

Review Questions

• What role do enzymes play in microbial biochemistry?
• Why is ATP considered crucial in microbial metabolism?
• Name the four main types of organic molecules important for microorganisms.

Related terms

Enzyme:

Protein that acts as a catalyst to accelerate biochemical reactions.

Metabolism:

The set of life-sustaining chemical reactions in organisms.

Fermentation:

A metabolic process that converts sugar to acids, gases, or alcohol in the absence of oxygen.