29 Examples of Biochemistry in Real Life

Biochemistry is the study of chemical processes occurring in living organisms and is integral to daily life. It’s essential to digestion, where enzymes break down food into nutrients, and pharmaceuticals, where drugs interact with our body’s biochemistry. Biochemical reactions fuel exercise and enable us to breathe, while genetics and DNA processes are underpinned by biochemistry. Environmental conservation, the food and beverage industry, and even the beauty of bioluminescence all hinge on biochemical processes. The vast applications of biochemistry stretch from the micro-level within our cells to the macro-level of our ecosystem, impacting health, industry, and the environment.

What is Biochemistry?

Biochemistry is a branch of science that explores the chemical processes within and related to living organisms. By using chemical knowledge and techniques, biochemists can help to understand and solve biological problems.

Biochemistry focuses on processes happening at a molecular level. It involves the study of the structure and function of cellular components, such as proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, nucleic acids, and other biomolecules.

Chemical reactions governed by enzymes, the processes of gene replication, transcription and translation, the cellular membrane transport mechanism, energy flow in cells, and the chemistry of cell communication are all areas of interest in biochemistry.

Biochemistry has applications in various areas, including medicine, nutrition, genetics, agriculture, environmental science, and more. It’s integral to biomedical research, drug design, and understanding diseases at the molecular level. By studying biochemistry, we can understand the causes of diseases at a molecular level and find new ways to treat or prevent them.

Difference between Chemistry and Biochemistry

Chemistry and biochemistry are interrelated scientific disciplines, each with its unique focus.

Chemistry is a branch of science that studies the properties, composition, structure, and changes of matter. It explores how and why substances combine or separate to form other substances and how substances interact with energy. Chemistry is divided into several sub-disciplines, including organic, inorganic, physical, analytical, and industrial chemistry. It provides the foundation for understanding the physical universe and has many practical applications, from research and development to healthcare and environmental protection.

On the other hand, biochemistry is a specialized discipline that merges biology and chemistry. It focuses on the chemical processes and substances that occur within living organisms. Biochemists study topics such as protein structure, enzymes, DNA, RNA, gene expression, chemical signaling, metabolic pathways, and more. In essence, biochemistry applies the theories and methods of chemistry to the complex realm of biological systems.

Therefore, while both chemistry and biochemistry involve the study of molecular structures and chemical reactions, their main difference lies in their focus. Chemistry is more general and applies to all types of matter, while biochemistry is more specialized and focuses specifically on biological organisms and processes.

Examples of Biochemistry in Real Life

• Digestion and Nutrition

Digestion and nutrition are pivotal processes in our bodies, both fundamentally driven by biochemistry. Digestion is the process through which our bodies break down food into absorbable nutrients, using various enzymes. For instance, amylase breaks down complex carbohydrates into simple sugars, while proteases and lipases decompose proteins and fats respectively. The breakdown products are then absorbed into the bloodstream through the small intestine and transported to cells where they’re used for energy, growth, and cellular repair. On the other hand, nutrition involves the consumption and utilization of foods that supply the necessary macro and micronutrients for life processes. Nutrients from food are metabolized through biochemical processes, providing energy (calories), building blocks for new molecules, and specific functions in the body like immune defense and DNA synthesis. A balanced diet fuels these processes, while deficiencies or excesses can lead to health issues. Understanding these biochemical processes aids in the development of effective dietary strategies for maintaining health and managing diseases.

• Pharmaceuticals

Pharmaceuticals, or drugs, play a significant role in the treatment, cure, and prevention of diseases. They’re designed to interact with biochemical processes in our bodies to provide therapeutic effects. Drugs can be designed to block or stimulate specific biological pathways, with the goal of alleviating symptoms or curing diseases. For example, antibiotics interfere with bacterial cell wall synthesis or protein production, thus killing the bacteria or inhibiting their growth. Antiviral drugs, like those used in HIV/AIDS treatment, inhibit key viral enzymes, preventing the virus from replicating. Meanwhile, analgesics, such as ibuprofen, inhibit the enzyme cyclooxygenase, reducing the production of prostaglandins that cause pain and inflammation. Advancements in biochemistry have also led to the development of targeted therapies in cancer treatment, where drugs specifically target cancer cells with minimal effects on normal cells.

• Exercise and Muscle Contraction

Exercise and muscle contraction are deeply rooted in biochemistry. When we exercise, our muscles contract to generate movement. This process requires energy, primarily in the form of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). ATP, often referred to as the energy currency of the cell, is generated from the breakdown of glucose (sugar) and lipids (fats). This process, known as cellular respiration, occurs within our cells’ mitochondria. During short, intense exercises, such as sprinting or weightlifting, muscles also generate ATP via anaerobic glycolysis, a process that doesn’t require oxygen and results in lactic acid production. Additionally, muscle contraction is regulated by the biochemical interaction between two proteins, actin and myosin. When stimulated by electrical signals from nerve cells, these proteins slide past each other, causing the muscle to contract.

• Breathing

Breathing, or respiration, is a vital process in all living organisms, fundamentally underpinned by biochemistry. It involves two main processes: inhalation, where we take in oxygen, and exhalation, where we release carbon dioxide. The oxygen we inhale is transported via our bloodstream to cells throughout the body, where it’s used in a process called cellular respiration. In the mitochondria of cells, oxygen is used to break down glucose, generating adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which serves as the primary energy source for most cellular functions. This process also produces carbon dioxide as a waste product. This carbon dioxide is then transported back to the lungs via the bloodstream and is expelled from the body when we exhale. Thus, breathing facilitates the exchange of gases critical for life, with oxygen supporting energy production and carbon dioxide being removed as a metabolic waste product. The regulation of breathing also involves a complex interplay of biochemical signals responding to the body’s oxygen and carbon dioxide levels.

• Environmental Conservation

Environmental conservation is significantly impacted by the principles of biochemistry, particularly through the understanding of biogeochemical cycles. These cycles describe the transformation and movement of key elements like carbon, nitrogen, and oxygen through the Earth’s atmosphere, hydrosphere, and biosphere. Plants, through the process of photosynthesis, capture carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and convert it into oxygen and carbohydrates, serving not only as the primary source of oxygen but also as key players in carbon sequestration. On the other hand, the nitrogen cycle, involving steps such as nitrogen fixation and denitrification, largely facilitated by bacteria, ensures the availability of nitrogen, a crucial nutrient for life. These processes help maintain a balance in the Earth’s systems, supporting life and ecological diversity. Biochemical understanding of these cycles is critical in monitoring and predicting environmental changes, managing ecosystems, and devising strategies to mitigate climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss. Thus, biochemistry offers vital insights for environmental conservation efforts.

• Genetics and DNA

Genetics and DNA are fundamentally interconnected, with biochemistry serving as the foundation of their interplay. DNA, or deoxyribonucleic acid, is a molecule that carries the genetic instructions for growth, development, function, and reproduction of all known organisms. Structurally, DNA is composed of nucleotides – biochemical units containing a sugar, a phosphate, and a nitrogenous base. The sequence of these bases encodes the genetic information. DNA undergoes replication, ensuring each new cell receives a complete set of genetic instructions. The process of transcription converts DNA into messenger RNA, which is then translated into proteins in a process called translation. These proteins serve various functions, from enzymatic activities to structural roles. Mutations in the DNA sequence can lead to changes in the proteins produced, potentially causing genetic disorders. The field of genetics, supported by biochemistry, helps us understand heredity, gene function, and the genetic basis of life, with profound implications for medicine, biotechnology, and understanding biological history.

• Fermentation

Fermentation is a biochemical process by which cells release energy from carbohydrates in the absence of oxygen. It involves the breakdown of complex organic substances into simpler ones, releasing energy in the process. There are two primary types of fermentation: alcoholic and lactic acid fermentation. In alcoholic fermentation, which is employed in brewing and winemaking, yeasts convert sugars into alcohol (ethanol) and carbon dioxide. In lactic acid fermentation, used in the production of yogurt and certain types of cheese, bacteria convert sugars into lactic acid, imparting a distinctive tart flavor. Fermentation is also used in the baking industry, where yeast ferments sugar to produce carbon dioxide gas, causing the dough to rise. Beyond its culinary uses, fermentation has applications in waste management, where it can help break down organic waste, and in the production of biofuels.

• Bioluminescence

Bioluminescence is a biochemical process by which living organisms produce and emit light. It occurs widely in marine organisms such as jellyfish, squid, and deep-sea fish, as well as in some insects like fireflies. This phenomenon is typically the result of a reaction between a light-emitting molecule, usually luciferin, and an enzyme, luciferase. When luciferin interacts with luciferase in the presence of oxygen, it oxidizes and emits light. The emitted light is often used by organisms for a variety of purposes, including attracting prey, deterring predators, or finding mates. Fireflies, for instance, have unique light patterns to attract potential partners. Understanding the biochemistry behind bioluminescence has enabled scientists to develop numerous applications, such as the creation of luminescent tags in biological research, environmental monitoring, and medical diagnostics.

• Immune System Functioning

The immune system, a complex network of cells, tissues, and biochemical molecules, defends the body against invading pathogens like bacteria, viruses, and parasites. It consists of two main components: the innate and adaptive immune systems. The innate immune system provides the first line of defense, responding immediately to pathogens in a non-specific manner through mechanisms like phagocytosis, inflammation, and production of antimicrobial substances. The adaptive immune system, on the other hand, responds specifically to pathogens it has encountered previously, providing long-lasting immunity. It involves T-cells and B-cells, which recognize specific antigens and respond accordingly. B-cells produce antibodies, proteins that bind to and neutralize specific antigens, while T-cells can directly kill infected cells or stimulate other immune cells. Biochemical signals, such as cytokines, regulate these immune responses.

• Detoxification

Detoxification is a critical biochemical process where harmful substances, both those introduced from the environment and those produced by our bodies, are converted into less harmful compounds and expelled. This process primarily takes place in the liver, which employs a variety of enzymes to neutralize toxins. Detoxification typically occurs in two phases. In Phase I, enzymes such as cytochrome P450s introduce reactive groups onto the toxin, often resulting in a more reactive but less harmful compound. In Phase II, the toxin is further modified by enzymes that attach small molecules to it, making it more soluble and easier to excrete. For example, the liver detoxifies alcohol by converting it to acetaldehyde (a harmful substance) and then to acetic acid, a normal constituent of many biochemical reactions.

• Hormone Function

Hormones play a crucial role in maintaining the body’s internal balance, or homeostasis, regulating an array of physiological processes. These biochemical messengers are produced by endocrine glands and are secreted directly into the bloodstream to reach their target organs. Each hormone has a specific effect on certain cells, known as target cells, which contain receptors for that hormone. When a hormone binds to its receptor, it triggers a series of biochemical reactions inside the cell that lead to the desired effect. For instance, insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas, promotes the uptake and storage of glucose in cells, thereby regulating blood sugar levels. Another example is the thyroid hormone, which controls the metabolism rate, body temperature, and heart rate. Estrogen and testosterone, the primary female and male sex hormones, are responsible for developing secondary sexual characteristics.

• Aging and Disease Progression

Aging and disease progression are influenced by various biochemical processes. As we age, accumulated damage at the molecular and cellular levels leads to a gradual decrease in physiological function and increased susceptibility to diseases. For instance, oxidative stress, a process where the body can’t efficiently neutralize harmful free radicals, can lead to cellular damage and contribute to aging and disease development. DNA damage and improper repair over time can lead to mutations, which could result in diseases such as cancer. Telomere shortening, a process that occurs each time a cell divides, is also associated with aging and certain diseases. Accumulation of misfolded proteins is linked to neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Inflammaging, a state of chronic, low-grade inflammation that develops with advanced age, contributes to the pathogenesis of many age-associated diseases.

• Mental Health

Mental health involves our emotional, psychological, and social well-being, and it affects how we think, feel, and act. Biochemistry plays a vital role in our understanding of mental health, particularly through the study of neurotransmitters, biochemical substances that transmit nerve impulses across synapses. Imbalances in neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine have been linked to various mental health conditions. For instance, depression is often associated with low levels of serotonin, while schizophrenia has been linked to excessive dopamine activity. Anxiety disorders may involve irregularities in GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), the main inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain. Stress, another important aspect of mental health, involves the hormone cortisol, which can affect other biochemical pathways in the body. Medications used to treat mental health conditions often aim to correct these biochemical imbalances.

• Smell and Taste

Smell and taste are fundamental senses that contribute to our experience of the world, and both are deeply rooted in biochemistry. In the nose and taste buds of the tongue, specialized sensory cells detect chemical molecules from the environment, translating them into signals that the brain interprets as different smells and tastes. When we smell something, airborne molecules enter the nose and bind to olfactory receptors. This binding triggers a biochemical signal transduction pathway, which generates a nerve impulse that the brain interprets as a specific smell. Taste, or gustation, operates similarly. When we eat, dissolved food molecules interact with taste receptors on our taste buds, triggering nerve signals that the brain interprets as sweet, sour, salty, bitter, or umami tastes. The combined signals from smell and taste receptors create our perception of the flavor of food.

• Pregnancy Tests

Pregnancy tests are based on the detection of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), a hormone produced during pregnancy. After fertilization, the developing embryo implants into the uterus and begins to produce hCG. This hormone ensures the continued production of progesterone, which is crucial for maintaining the pregnancy. In urine-based home pregnancy tests, a small sample of urine is exposed to a testing strip containing antibodies that recognize and bind to hCG. This binding event triggers a visible reaction, typically a color change or the appearance of a symbol, indicating a positive test result. Blood-based pregnancy tests performed in a medical setting can also detect hCG and can measure its concentration more precisely. These tests are accurate and can detect pregnancy as early as one week after conception.

• Laundry Detergents

Laundry detergents leverage biochemistry to clean clothes effectively. They contain a mix of various components, each serving a specific purpose. Surfactants are the primary cleaning agents in detergents. They work by reducing the surface tension of water, allowing it to better penetrate fabric and remove dirt and oils. Enzymes are also a key component of modern detergents. Proteases break down protein-based stains such as blood, while lipases target fat-based stains, and amylases handle stains from carbohydrates like chocolate and sauces. These enzymes act as biological catalysts, accelerating the chemical reactions that break down stains without being consumed in the process. Other ingredients include bleaches for removing color-based stains and optical brighteners that absorb UV light and re-emit it as visible light, making clothes appear whiter.

• Photosynthesis and Agriculture

Photosynthesis is the fundamental biochemical process by which green plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy, usually from the sun, into chemical energy in the form of glucose. This process, which also involves the conversion of carbon dioxide and water into oxygen, is critical to agriculture as it underpins the growth and productivity of crops. Understanding the biochemistry of photosynthesis has led to advancements in agricultural practices. For example, by selectively breeding plants with more efficient photosynthesis, crop yields have been significantly increased. Scientists are also researching ways to optimize photosynthesis in response to changing climate conditions, such as increased carbon dioxide levels and varying light intensities. Future breakthroughs may include the development of genetically modified crops with enhanced photosynthetic capabilities or agricultural practices that optimize light exposure.

• DNA Testing and Forensics

DNA testing has revolutionized the field of forensics, providing a powerful tool to identify individuals involved in a crime or to confirm familial relationships. At the heart of this technology is the understanding that each person’s DNA is unique, except for identical twins. When forensic scientists collect biological evidence from a crime scene, such as hair, skin cells, or blood, they can extract DNA and examine specific regions known as short tandem repeats (STRs). These regions vary greatly among individuals, allowing for unique DNA profiles. Comparing these profiles to those of potential suspects can establish a match with high accuracy. DNA testing can also exonerate individuals wrongly accused of crimes. Similarly, in paternity testing, the child’s DNA is compared with the potential father’s DNA to confirm biological relations.

• Cosmetics and Skin Care

Cosmetics and skincare products rely heavily on biochemistry to achieve their desired effects. These products contain a variety of compounds, such as moisturizers, antioxidants, exfoliants, and sunscreens, each performing specific functions. Moisturizers often contain humectants like glycerin, which attracts water to the skin, and emollients like fatty acids, which smooth skin by filling spaces between skin cells. Antioxidants like vitamins C and E help protect the skin from damage by free radicals. Exfoliants, such as alpha and beta hydroxy acids, promote skin renewal by helping remove dead skin cells. Sunscreens contain compounds that absorb or reflect UV radiation to protect the skin from sun damage. Recent advancements in skincare biochemistry include the use of peptides, growth factors, and stem cells for anti-aging effects and probiotics for skin health.

• Climate Change Studies

Climate change studies often involve biochemistry, as many climate processes are driven by biochemical reactions. One key area is the study of the carbon cycle, where carbon is exchanged among the biosphere, lithosphere, hydrosphere, and atmosphere. This includes understanding photosynthesis, where plants absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, and respiration, the reverse process. Changes in these biochemical processes due to increasing global temperatures can impact carbon storage and release, influencing climate change. Ocean acidification is another area of interest, where increased atmospheric carbon dioxide leads to more CO2 dissolving in the oceans, forming carbonic acid and lowering ocean pH. This biochemical reaction impacts marine life, particularly organisms with calcium carbonate shells. Furthermore, the study of natural and man-made greenhouse gases, their sources, and their influence on the Earth’s energy balance is vital.

• Biodegradable Plastics

Biodegradable plastics represent a promising solution to the environmental problems caused by conventional, petroleum-based plastics. These alternatives, often made from renewable raw materials like corn starch, can be broken down by microorganisms into water, carbon dioxide, and biomass. The biochemistry involved in their decomposition is complex and requires the right environmental conditions, including specific temperatures, humidity levels, and the presence of certain microbes. Polylactic acid (PLA) is a common type of biodegradable plastic, which is converted by microorganisms into lactic acid, a naturally occurring substance. Another type, polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), is produced by bacteria as a form of energy storage and can be degraded back into carbon dioxide and water. Research is also ongoing into ‘bioplastics’, which are not only biodegradable but also produced by bacteria or other biological means, further reducing their environmental impact.

• Biofuels

Biofuels represent a renewable energy source derived from living or recently living organisms, offering a sustainable and potentially carbon-neutral alternative to fossil fuels. There are several types of biofuels, but the most common are bioethanol and biodiesel. Bioethanol is typically produced by fermenting the sugar components of plant materials using yeast or bacteria. The process involves converting the carbohydrates in plants, often corn or sugarcane, into glucose, then fermenting the glucose into ethanol. Biodiesel, on the other hand, is produced from oils or fats using a process known as transesterification. This process uses an alcohol like methanol and a catalyst to convert triglycerides present in the fat or oil into glycerol and a type of ester known as biodiesel.

• Drug Design and Discovery

Drug design and discovery is a complex process where biochemistry plays a pivotal role. The process often starts with the identification of a biological target, such as a protein or enzyme, involved in a disease process. Biochemists then strive to understand the structure and function of this target at a molecular level. Once the target and its mechanism are known, the drug discovery process involves finding a molecule, or ‘lead compound’, that can interact with the target in a beneficial way. Techniques such as high-throughput screening, where thousands of compounds are tested for their biological activity, are commonly used. In the drug design phase, this lead compound is modified to improve its efficacy, selectivity, and safety. Techniques like computer-aided drug design and structure-based drug design are employed to predict how changes in a molecule’s structure will affect its interaction with the target.

• Waste Treatment

Waste treatment involves a series of biochemical processes to render waste less harmful before its final disposal. In sewage treatment, for instance, a primary treatment step removes solids, after which a secondary treatment step uses bacteria to break down organic matter. This biological process is called activated sludge treatment, where microbes oxidize organic compounds for energy and convert them into carbon dioxide and water. In anaerobic digestion, another key waste treatment method, microorganisms break down biodegradable material in the absence of oxygen to produce biogas, a renewable energy source. Biochemical processes are also used in the treatment of industrial waste. For example, some bacteria can metabolize toxic heavy metals, effectively neutralizing them. Similarly, certain fungi are used to break down hazardous organic pollutants.

• Cancer Research

Cancer research is a multifaceted discipline, with biochemistry playing a crucial role in understanding and combating the disease. At its core, cancer is a disease of the cell cycle – the ordered sequence of events leading to cell division. Biochemists study the biochemical pathways that regulate this cycle, as well as how mutations in these pathways can lead to uncontrolled cell growth and cancer. Key areas of focus include understanding the function of oncogenes, genes that have the potential to cause cancer when mutated or expressed at high levels, and tumor suppressor genes, which normally prevent cell growth and proliferation. Biochemists also study the biochemical changes that allow cancer cells to evade the immune system, invade surrounding tissues, and spread throughout the body. Insights from this research inform the development of targeted cancer therapies, such as drugs that inhibit specific enzymes or antibodies that enhance the immune response against cancer cells.

• Food Science

Food science combines biology, chemistry, and engineering to study the nature of foods and the principles of food processing. A significant part of food science involves understanding the biochemistry of food, including the structure, properties, and interactions of biomolecules like proteins, carbohydrates, and fats in our diet. For example, the Maillard reaction, a form of non-enzymatic browning, involves a chemical reaction between amino acids and reducing sugars that gives browned food its distinctive flavor. This reaction is central to various cooking processes and forms the basis of flavor in foods like bread, coffee, and grilled meat. Food scientists also study enzymatic reactions, like the oxidation of polyphenols by the enzyme polyphenol oxidase, which causes browning in fruits and vegetables. Additionally, they research the nutritional content of foods and how cooking and processing affect nutrient bioavailability. This knowledge aids in the development of new food products, preservation techniques, and dietary guidelines.

• Public Health

Public health involves the prevention of disease, prolongation of life, and promotion of health through organized efforts and informed choices of society. A significant part of public health involves understanding and applying biochemical concepts. For example, epidemiologists study the biochemical mechanisms of disease transmission and progression to predict and control outbreaks. Nutritionists rely on understanding the biochemistry of nutrient metabolism to provide dietary recommendations. Environmental health professionals study how environmental contaminants can interfere with biochemical processes, causing adverse health effects. Understanding the biochemistry of infectious agents, such as bacteria and viruses, and the human immune response, informs vaccine development and antimicrobial treatments. Additionally, public health researchers study genetic and biochemical markers of disease risk to identify susceptible populations and develop targeted interventions. As such, biochemistry provides a foundation for public health efforts to prevent disease and promote health at the population level.

• Synthetic Biology

Synthetic biology is an emerging field that combines biology and engineering principles to design and construct new biological parts, devices, and systems, or to redesign systems that are already found in nature. This involves the manipulation of life’s building blocks at the biochemical level to create novel organisms or products. A notable example is the engineering of bacteria or yeast to produce biofuels or pharmaceuticals, such as insulin or antimalarial drugs. Synthetic biology also explores the creation of synthetic DNA and other genetic material, enabling the development of organisms with entirely new genetic codes. This could lead to organisms with unprecedented abilities, such as bacteria designed to clean up oil spills. Furthermore, synthetic biology has promising applications in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, with the potential to create synthetic organs for transplantation.

• Biomarkers and Clinical Testing

Biomarkers, short for biological markers, are molecules that indicate normal or abnormal processes occurring in the body. They are often used in clinical testing to diagnose diseases, monitor their progression, or assess responses to treatment. The detection of biomarkers typically involves biochemical assays that measure their levels in blood, urine, or other biological samples. For example, the blood levels of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) can be used as a biomarker for prostate cancer, while the level of glucose in the blood is a crucial biomarker for diabetes management. Genetic markers, like certain mutations in BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes, can signal an increased risk of developing breast or ovarian cancer. More recently, researchers have been studying complex biomarkers, like patterns of gene expression or metabolites, which could provide more detailed information about disease states.

Summary

Conclusion

In conclusion, biochemistry is a fundamental discipline that permeates every aspect of our lives. From digestion, exercise, and immune response, to the design of pharmaceuticals, understanding of genetics, and development of sustainable practices, biochemistry is key. It plays an essential role in advancing fields such as cancer research, synthetic biology, and public health. It also helps us understand and address pressing global challenges like climate change and disease progression. Furthermore, its applications in industries ranging from agriculture to cosmetics underscore its universal relevance. The study and application of biochemistry, therefore, hold immense potential for enhancing human life and safeguarding our planet.