Essay on the Chemicals of Life
All biological organisms are made up from a series of closely related chemicals, all derived from the atoms carbon, oxygen, hydrogen and nitrogen. Indeed it is the presence of the atom carbon that distinguishes organic (living) matter from inorganic (non-living) matter. Very few inorganic materials contain carbon, whilst all organic materials do. The constituent atoms make up a series of molecules of varying sizes and complexities. Depending on the configuration of the atoms these can form proteins, fats, carbohydrates and nucleic acids. …
Essay on Amino Acid Metabolism: normal and abnormal
Protein is one of the basic fundamental groups of essential nutrition. As protein is broken down in the body it forms amino acids. There are about 28 commonly known amino acids that are combined in various ways to create proteins. In addition to the amino acids that combine to form the body’s proteins, other amino acids are important in metabolic functions. For example, taurine, citrulline and glutathione may act as neurotransmitters or precursors of neurotransmitters.…
