Catabolism of Heme Heme catabolism is a complex biological process that primarily occurs in the liver and spleen. This process is essential for the breakdown of heme, a component of hemoglobin, myoglobin, and various cytochromes. The steps involved in heme catabolism are as follows: 1. Heme Oxygenase Reaction: – Heme oxygenase (HO) is the … Read more
Adrenaline, also known as epinephrine, is a vital hormone and neurotransmitter involved in the body’s fight-or-flight response. It plays a crucial role in regulating cardiovascular function, metabolism, and stress responses. This detailed note explores the synthesis, biological roles, and clinical significance of adrenaline. Synthesis of Adrenaline Adrenaline is synthesized from the amino acid tyrosine through … Read more
Noradrenaline, also known as norepinephrine, is a crucial neurotransmitter and hormone involved in the regulation of various physiological processes, including the fight-or-flight response, attention, arousal, and mood. It is synthesized primarily in the adrenal medulla and the locus coeruleus in the brain. This detailed note explores the synthesis, biological roles, and clinical significance of noradrenaline. … Read more
Dopamine is a crucial neurotransmitter and hormone that plays vital roles in the central nervous system and peripheral tissues. It is involved in several key physiological processes including motor control, motivation, reward, and regulation of mood. Dopamine dysregulation is implicated in various neurological and psychiatric disorders. This note provides a comprehensive overview of dopamine synthesis, … Read more
Melatonin is a hormone primarily produced by the pineal gland in the brain and is a critical regulator of the sleep-wake cycle and various circadian rhythms. It has additional roles in antioxidant defense, immune function, and seasonal biological rhythms. This note provides a comprehensive overview of melatonin synthesis, its biological roles, and its clinical significance. … Read more
5-HT, or serotonin, is a vital neurotransmitter with a broad range of physiological functions, influencing mood, appetite, sleep, and other behaviors. It also plays roles in the gastrointestinal system, cardiovascular system, and hemostasis. The significance of serotonin extends from its influence on mental health to its involvement in various bodily functions. This note provides a … Read more
Phenylalanine and tyrosine are essential amino acids involved in the synthesis of proteins and important biomolecules such as neurotransmitters, hormones, and pigments. Their catabolism is tightly regulated, and disruptions in these pathways can lead to serious metabolic disorders. This note provides a detailed overview of the catabolism of phenylalanine and tyrosine, followed by a discussion … Read more
The urea cycle, also known as the ornithine cycle, is a crucial metabolic pathway in the liver that converts toxic ammonia into urea for excretion from the body. Ammonia is a byproduct of amino acid and protein metabolism, and its accumulation can be toxic, particularly to the central nervous system. The urea cycle ensures that … Read more
Amino acid metabolism encompasses a series of biochemical processes responsible for the synthesis, breakdown, and interconversion of amino acids. These reactions are crucial for maintaining the body’s protein balance and supporting various physiological functions. The primary reactions involved in amino acid metabolism include transamination, deamination, and decarboxylation. Â 1. Transamination Definition: Transamination is the process by … Read more
Disorders of lipid metabolism encompass a range of conditions that involve abnormal levels or functioning of lipids in the body. Key disorders include hypercholesterolemia, atherosclerosis, fatty liver, and obesity. Each of these conditions can significantly impact health and lead to serious complications if not managed properly. Hypercholesterolemia Hypercholesterolemia is characterized by elevated levels of cholesterol … Read more
