Jasmine Grover Content Strategy Manager
Content Strategy Manager | Updated On - Sep 26, 2025
Biochemistry, in simple terms, can be defined as a vast branch of science that combines both Biology and Chemistry. It is a study focusing on the life processes of living organisms at both biological and chemical levels. The topic holds a lot of significance in the day-to-day life of every living thing.
- The term “Biochemistry” was coined by Carl Neuberg in 1930. He is referred to as the ‘Father of Modern Biochemistry’.
- In simple terms, biochemistry can also be called "the chemistry of everyday life".
- Biochemistry also deals with the functions and structure of biomolecules such as proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, etc.
- The scope of biochemistry is very broad, including applications in medicine, agriculture, biotechnology, and research.
- Students pursuing or wishing to make a career in biochemistry can work as research assistants, biomedical scientists, pharmacologists, and quality control analysts, etc.
Key Summary
In this article, we will understand biochemistry in detail, listing its sub-branches, commenting on its importance, and exploring its scope, etc.
- In Biochemistry, proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, and nucleic acids are studied in detail.
- Biochemistry helps us understand the mechanisms and actions of diseases and targeted drugs.
- Molecular biology, genetics, and cellular biology are related branches of biochemistry.
- Students who earn a bachelor's degree in biochemistry can further specialize or earn a master's degree.
- Job opportunities like Research Analyst, Quality Control, Research & Development, etc., are also available in the field of Biochemistry.
What is Biochemistry?
Biochemistry is the branch of science that focuses on all the chemical/ life processes associated with living organisms. It can be understood as the chemistry of life and its functions.
- Carl Alexander Neuberg is credited with coining the term biochemistry. He made significant contributions to biochemistry and the elucidation of metabolic pathways in alcoholic fermentation.
- The branch focuses on studying organisms' cells, thereby understanding their structures and various interactions.
- It is the study of the internal structures and interactions of various macromolecules like carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, nucleic acids, and organelles present in the body of organisms.
- The branch focuses on investigating the chemical reactions involved in different life processes like metabolism, reproduction, heredity, and growth.
Biochemistry Concepts
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Branches of Biochemistry
Due to the continuous progress in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics, the branches of biochemistry are growing diversely and vastly. The significant branches include:
Molecular Biology
This scientific discipline attempts to study and analyze the processes in living organisms at a molecular level. The Molecular Biology branch is often considered the ‘root of biochemistry’.
- The branch aims to study and investigate in detail the biochemical, metabolic cycles in living beings, the integration-disintegration of molecules, thereby understanding the functions of the living systems.
- The field focuses on analyzing the behavior, interactions of biological macromolecules like DNA, RNA, Proteins, enzymes, hormones, etc., and their synthesis within the cells, thereby explaining the biological functions of organisms at the molecular level.
Cell Biology
The branch deals with the structure and functions of cells in living organisms. The cell biology branch of biochemistry is also called Cytology. This area focuses on studying the morphology and psychology of eukaryotes and prokaryotes at the cellular level.
- Cytology reveals the properties, functions, structure, biochemical composition, and the lifecycle of cells in organisms.
- Cell biology is essential to understand the intrinsic cellular processes that cells carry out during their life cycle, like respiration, nutrition, cell division, synthesis of compounds, defense mechanisms, cell death, etc.
- The branch is closely associated with fields like physiology, histology, and microbiology.
Genetics
Genetics, an important branch of biochemistry, focuses on the study of genes, their mutations/variations, and the characteristics of heredity in living organisms. Here, the structure, function, variation, and distribution of genes are studied within the context of the cell, the organism, and the population.
- Genetics is a broad field, having several subfields like molecular genetics, population genetics, and epigenetics.
- Molecular genetics and genetic engineering are fields under biochemistry and molecular biology that study genes, inheritance, and expression.
Relationship between Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, and Genetics
Other major branches of biochemistry include:
- Animal and Plant Biochemistry
- Biotechnology
- Molecular Chemistry
- Genetic engineering
- Endocrinology
- Neurochemistry
- Immunology
- Virology
- Chemotaxonomy
- Xenobiotics
- Nutrition
- Environmental Biochemistry
- Toxicology
Metabolism in Biochemistry
Metabolism is one of the most essential and fundamental processes taking place in living beings. It refers to the series of activities that happen in the body when food is converted into energy.
- The process involves many interconnected cellular pathways to provide cells with the required energy to carry out their functions.
- Metabolism can be the array of biochemical processes that take place in living beings. It includes both anabolism, which builds up substances, and catabolism, which breakdown down substances.
Catabolism and Anabolism in Biochemistry
Metabolism is divided into catabolism and anabolism in Biochemistry. The differences are listed below in detail:
| Aspect | Catabolism (Breakdown) | Anabolism (Synthesis) |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Breaks down molecules to release energy | Builds complex molecules using energy |
| Energy | Produces ATP | Consumes ATP |
| Example | Glycolysis, Fatty acid oxidation | Protein synthesis, DNA replication |
| Role | Provides energy & raw materials | Constructs cellular structures |
Importance Of Biochemistry
At present, biochemistry is one of the most developing and critical areas of study in science. The field offers a significant avenue for research.
- Biochemistry in Understanding Life Processes: Biochemistry helps understand the chemical aspects of different biological processes, such as digestion, respiration, reproduction, excretion, the behavior of hormones, contraction, and relaxation of muscles, and many more.
- Biochemistry in the Study of Biomolecules: The field generally studies different body substances like enzymes, amino acids, carbohydrates, proteins, fats, DNA, RNA, Pigments, hormones, etc., at the fundamental level.
- Biochemistry Employment Opportunities: Biochemistry ensures sustainability. It is a vast branch of science that offers endless possibilities- an enormous scope for employment, such as research assistants, biomedical scientists, pharmacologists, and quality control analysts etc. Therefore, biochemistry is essential as a sustainable tool.
- Biochemistry in Health & Medicine: Biochemists make use of chemical information and procedures to solve biological problems. Biochemistry solves fundamental problems in biology and medicine.
- Biochemistry in Manufacturing Biological Products: It is essential in designing and manufacturing various chemical and biological products, clinical diagnosis, nutrition, treatment of diseases, agriculture, etc.
Scope Of Biochemistry
Biochemistry is the study of life; hence, the scope it offers is as broad as life itself. The field has seen unprecedented growth, especially in the present times. Biochemistry offers a lot of scope in fields like:
Biochemistry in Medical Sciences
There is a huge scope in areas like pathology, immunology, pharmacy, vaccine development, etc. People can also find a job as Biochemists, lab assistants, medical transcriptionists, clinical coordinators, and marketing executives after having relevant degrees in any field of biochemistry. Another advanced scope of biochemistry is in Genetic Engineering or Recombinant DNA Technology.
Biochemistry Scope in Agriculture
Plant biochemistry offers an enormous scope. Students of this branch can become agricultural scientists and develop agricultural crop variants that are high-yielding and disease-resistant. Knowledge of biochemistry can also help in setting up own farms or nurseries.
Biochemistry Scope in Food Industry
Nutritionists and dieticians help in monitoring and regulating the nutrient richness in the body. These roles have an enormous scope, especially in today's world, where everyone is leading a sedentary lifestyle. Being a Food analyst or a Food security officer are other job prospects in this area.
Biochemistry Scope in Academics and Research
The field offers plenty of research opportunities. Every area under biochemistry is worth learning and researching.
Fields of Biochemistry
Things To Remember
- Biochemistry is the branch of science that combines both biology and chemistry to understand and analyze life and its processes.
- It helps understand the chemical aspects of different biological processes, such as digestion, respiration, reproduction, excretion, the behavior of hormones, contraction, and relaxation of muscles, and many more.
- Biochemistry is a powerful tool to improve the quality of life on earth (reducing poverty, evading hunger, improving the health sector). It is vital in leading a sustainable life on Earth.
Sample Questions
Ques. Who coined the term “Biochemistry”? (1 mark)
Ans. The term “Biochemistry” was coined by Carl Neuberg in 1930. He is referred to as the ‘Father of Modern Biochemistry’. He made significant contributions to biochemistry and the elucidation of metabolic pathways in alcoholic fermentation.
Ques: What are the main branches of Biochemistry? (3 marks)
Ans: The Following are some important branches of Biochemistry:
| Branch | Details |
|---|---|
| Structural Biochemistry | Study of biomolecules like proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, and nucleic acids |
| Enzymology | Study of enzymes and catalysis |
| Metabolism | Study of chemical pathways and energy flow |
| Molecular Biology | Study of DNA, RNA, and protein synthesis |
| Clinical Biochemistry | Application in medicine, diagnostics, and disease |
Ques. What are the chemical elements that form most of the biological living matter? (2 marks)
Ans. The chemical elements that form most of the molecules of living matter in living organisms are:
- Oxygen (O),
- Carbon (C),
- Hydrogen (H), and
- Nitrogen (N).
Ques. How many known amino acids are there that form proteins in living beings? (1 mark)
Ans. There are around 20 known amino acids that form proteins in living beings. There are still many more to be known.
Ques. What are biomolecules and their functions? (3 marks)
Ans. Biomolecules are the macromolecules produced by living organisms to sustain life and form the basis of growth. Here are some important biomolecules mentioned below, along with their functions:
| Biomolecules | Function |
|---|---|
| Carbohydrates | Provide energy and structural support |
| Lipids | Energy storage, cell membrane structure, signaling molecules |
| Nucleic acids (DNA & RNA | Genetic material and protein synthesis |
Ques. What is the binding between two amino acids called? Describe the formation of the bond. (2 marks)
Ans. The bond between two amino acids is called a Peptide bond. A peptide bond is formed when carbon from the carboxyl group of one amino acid is connected to the nitrogen of the amine group of another amino acid. This binding results in the liberation of one water molecule.
Ques. What is the primary structure of a protein? What is its importance? (3 marks)
Ans. The primary protein structure is constituted by a linear sequence of amino acids that form the molecule. The primary structure defines the identity of the protein.
- Even a change in any one amino acid can result in the creation of a different protein.
- Different proteins have other biological functions. Hence primary structure is significant.
Ques. What is the difference between DNA and RNA? (3 marks)
Ans. DNA and RNA are the two types of nucleic acids. The differences between DNA & RNA are listed below in a tabular format:
| Feature | DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid) | RNA (Ribonucleic Acids) |
|---|---|---|
| Sugar | Deoxyribose | Ribose |
| Structure | Double-stranded helix | Single-atranded |
| Bases | A, T, G, C | A, U, G, C |
| Function | Stores genetic information | Protein synthesis, regulation |
| Stability | More stable | Less stable |
Ques. How do enzymes differ from hormones? (3 marks)
Ans. Both enzymes and hormones are by-products of proteins. But they differ from each other in terms of chemical nature, structure, and site of action:
| Parameters | Enzymes | Hormones |
|---|---|---|
| Nature | Proteins (mostly) | Proteins, steroids, peptides |
| Function | Catalyze biochemical reaction | Regulate physiological processes |
| Action site | At the site of production | Can act far from the production site |
| Example | Amylase, Lipase | Insulin, Estrogen |
Ques. Differentiate between essential and non-essential amino acids. (3 marks)
Ans. Natural amino acids are those that are naturally produced by the body of any organism.
- Essential amino acids are not naturally generated or synthesized by the body. And ingestion of these amino acids is required to get them inside an organism’s body.
- In human beings, out of the 20 amino acids known, 12 are natural amino acids, and the rest eight are to be acquired via ingestion of protein in food.
- The essential amino acids for humans are valine, phenylalanine, histidine, lysine, isoleucine, threonine, methionine, and tryptophan.
Ques. What are enzymes, and what do you mean by the activation center of an enzyme? (5 marks)
Ans. Enzymes are catalysts (biocatalysts) that speed up the biochemical reactions in organisms. A catalyst refers to any substance that increases the speed of a reaction without being a reactant.
- These are made up of one or more amino acid chains or polypeptide chains. The amino acid sequence determines the characteristic binding patterns of the enzyme.
- A cell contains thousands of different types of enzymes, each specific to various chemical reactions. The enzymes act upon molecules called substrates to form products.
- Activation center or active site refers to the part of the enzyme that binds with the substrate to form products. It is at this site that the catalytic action happens. Once the enzyme binds with the substrate, it forms the enzyme-substrate complex.
Ques. What are Zymogens? Explain with the help of an example. (3 marks)
Ans. Zymogens are precursors to active enzymes. They are also called proenzymes. Zymogens need to undergo specific biochemical changes (like hydrolysis) to become active enzymes. These changes usually occur in Golgi bodies, wherein a particular portion of the precursor enzyme is removed to activate it.
Example of Zymogen
Pepsinogen is a zymogen. It is the inactive precursor of the enzyme pepsin. Pepsinogens become active pepsin when the chief cells release the zymogen into the gastric acid-containing HCL. HCL partially activates the zymogen, and the rest gets activated when the peptide unit is removed.
Ques. What are the similarities and differences between the transcription and the replication processes? (5 marks)
Ans. DNA replication and transcription both involve the creation of a copy of the DNA in a cell. In transcription, the DNA is copied into RNA, whereas another copy of DNA is made in Replication.
SIMILARITIES
- Both processes involve the binding of complementary nucleotides to the DNA.
- Errors can happen in both these processes. An error in transcription or Replication can cause a change in the gene.
DIFFERENCES
- Transcription is preparation for protein translation. In contrast, DNA replication is essential for mitosis or cell division.
- DNA replication regulates the growth and division of cells. Transcription regulates gene expression.
- Transcription involves the action of the enzyme DNA polymerase, whereas in DNA replication, the enzyme is RNA polymerase.
Ques. What are the applications of Biochemistry in daily life? (3 marks)
Ans. The scope of biochemistry is very broad, including applications in medicine, agriculture, biotechnology, and research. The following are the important applications of Biochemistry:
- In medicine: Disease diagnosis, drug development, clinical test (e.g., blood glucose, liver function tests)
- In Agriculture: Genetic engineering, crop improvement, pesticide design
- In nutrition: Understanding metabolism of nutrients, dietary planning
- In forensics: DNA fingerprinting
- In biotechnology: Vaccine development, enzyme production, fermentation
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