Scientists unravel how plants decide to grow or make oil

Proteins are molecular machines, with flexible pieces and moving parts. Understanding how these parts move helps scientists unravel the function a protein plays in living things—and potentially how to change its effects. Biochemists at the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Brookhaven National Laboratory and colleagues at DOE’s Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) have published a … Read more

Biochemistry: Chemical Processes in Living Organisms

Biochemistry is the branch of science that explores the chemical processes and molecules within living organisms. It delves into the structure, function, and interactions of biomolecules such as proteins, nucleic acids, carbohydrates, lipids, and metabolites, elucidating fundamental principles of life, cellular functions, biochemical pathways, and molecular mechanisms underlying biological processes. Proteins Proteins are essential biomolecules … Read more

Aerobic respiration

Aerobic respiration is a fundamental metabolic process that provides organisms with the energy they need to sustain life. Occurring in the presence of oxygen, aerobic respiration involves the breakdown of organic molecules, such as glucose, to produce ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the universal energy currency of cells. This intricate biochemical pathway consists of several interconnected stages, … Read more

What is biochemistry?

Biochemistry is a branch of science that explores the chemical processes and substances that occur within living organisms. Combining principles from biology and chemistry, biochemistry seeks to understand the molecular mechanisms underlying the structure, function, and regulation of biological molecules. From the intricate dance of enzymes and metabolic pathways to the decoding of genetic information … Read more

Cellular processes demystified

Cellular processes are the intricate series of events that occur within a cell, governing its growth, maintenance, and reproduction. Demystifying these processes involves unraveling the complex molecular choreography that underlies cellular life. From the fundamental processes like cell division to the intricate pathways of cellular communication, understanding these mechanisms is essential for comprehending life at … Read more

What role do enzymes play in biological reactions, and how are they regulated?

Enzymes are fundamental components of biological systems, serving as catalysts for a vast array of chemical reactions within living organisms. Their role is paramount in maintaining the intricate balance of biochemical processes, ensuring the efficient conversion of substrates into products. Enzymes facilitate reactions by lowering the activation energy required for a chemical transformation, thus accelerating … Read more

New tool to understand how medications affect men and women differently

UVA Health researchers have pioneered an innovative tool for comprehending the gender-specific effects of medications, paving the way for safer and more efficacious drugs in the future. Frequently, women experience a disproportionate number of medication-induced liver issues, yet they are often underrepresented in drug trials. To tackle this disparity, UVA scientists have harnessed advanced computer … Read more

Scientists discover how starch granules form in wheat

Recent research findings have provided much-needed clarity regarding the age-old question of how starch granules are formed within the seeds of Triticeae crops, including wheat, barley, and rye. This breakthrough revelation not only offers profound insights for a multitude of industries but also holds the potential to positively impact human health. Starch, a fundamental source … Read more