Biochemistry and Human Body Orientation: Study Notes for ANP College Students

Biochemistry

Organic and Inorganic Compounds

Biochemistry is the study of the chemical processes and substances that occur within living organisms. Compounds in biology are classified as organic or inorganic based on their chemical structure and origin.

• Organic Compounds: Contain carbon atoms and are typically found in living organisms. Examples include carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids.

• Inorganic Compounds: Do not usually contain carbon-hydrogen bonds. Examples include water, salts, acids, and bases.

Major Organic Molecules

Organic molecules are essential for life and perform various functions in the body. The four main types are:

• Carbohydrates: Molecules made of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen. They are the main source of fuel/energy for cells. Produced by plants during photosynthesis. Example: Sugars such as glucose.

• Lipids: Hydrophobic molecules that include fats, oils, and steroids. They store energy, form cell membranes, and act as signaling molecules. Example: Triglycerides.

• Proteins: Complex molecules made of amino acids. They perform structural, enzymatic, and regulatory functions. Example: Enzymes, hemoglobin.

• Nucleic Acids: Molecules such as DNA and RNA that store and transmit genetic information. Example: DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid).

Summary Table: Organic Molecules

Type	Elements Contained	Main Function	Example
Carbohydrates	Carbon, Hydrogen, Oxygen	Energy source	Glucose
Lipids	Carbon, Hydrogen, Oxygen	Energy storage, cell membranes	Triglycerides
Proteins	Carbon, Hydrogen, Oxygen, Nitrogen	Structure, enzymes	Hemoglobin
Nucleic Acids	Carbon, Hydrogen, Oxygen, Nitrogen, Phosphorus	Genetic information	DNA

Additional info: The basic formula for carbohydrates is $C_nH_{2n}O_n$.

Unit 1: The Human Body: An Orientation

Anatomy and Physiology

Anatomy is the study of the structure of the body, while physiology is the study of the function of body parts and systems. Together, they provide a comprehensive understanding of how the human body works.

• Anatomy: Examines the physical structure and location of organs and tissues.

• Physiology: Explores how these structures function and interact.

Anatomical Terminology

Precise terminology is essential for clear communication about the body’s structure and location of its parts. Anatomical terms describe positions, directions, and regions.

• Directional Terms: Used to describe the location of one body part relative to another. Examples include superior, inferior, anterior, posterior, medial, lateral, proximal, and distal.

• Example: The heart is medial to the lungs; the fingers are distal to the wrist.

Additional info: Directional terms are foundational for understanding anatomical relationships and are used in medical and scientific communication.