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In this article, I briefly describe how the analysis of protein-protein interactions helps to understand protein function. Understanding Protein Roles through Molecular Associations The function of a specific protein can often be inferred by identifying the cellular components it binds to. When it comes to protein–protein interactions, associating a protein of unknown function with a … Read more >>
In this article, I briefly describe some proteins that facilitate the transbilayer movement of a lipid molecule. The Lipid Bilayer The lipid bilayer is the core structure of all biological membranes, creating a flexible boundary that encloses cells and their internal compartments. It is mainly made of phospholipids, which naturally organize into a double layer … Read more >>
In this article, I briefly describe fat-soluble vitamins and their importance in the human body. Fat-Soluble Vitamins In the early decades of the 20th century, one of the most exciting frontiers in physiological chemistry was the discovery of vitamins—tiny but vital compounds that play a crucial role in maintaining health. Since humans and other vertebrates … Read more >>
In this article, I briefly describe the types of eicosanoids and steroid hormones and how they carry messages to cells and tissues, respectively. Eicosanoids Eicosanoids are bioactive lipid molecules derived from 20-carbon polyunsaturated fatty acids, mainly arachidonic acid. They play vital roles in cell signaling, especially in inflammation, immunity, and many physiological functions. These are … Read more >>
In this article, I briefly describe triacylglycerols, the fatty acid esters of glycerol. Triacylglycerols store energy and provide insulation. Partial hydrogenation of edible oils creates fatty acids with harmful side effects. Structure and Properties of Triacylglycerol Triacylglycerols, or triglycerides, fats, or neutral fats, are the simplest lipids derived from fatty acids. They consist of three … Read more >>
In this article, I briefly describe the role of G protein-coupled receptors in vertebrate olfaction and gustation. G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) These receptors act through a guanosine nucleotide-binding protein or G-protein family member. Signal transduction is defined through three essential components. The three essential components can be described as a plasma membrane receptor with seven … Read more >>
In this article, I briefly describe the role of G protein-coupled receptors in vision. G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) These receptors act through a guanosine nucleotide-binding protein or G protein, family member. Signal transduction is defined through three essential components. The three essential components can be described as a plasma membrane receptor with seven transmembrane helical … Read more >>
In this article, I briefly describe allosteric enzymes and their properties. Enzymes The highly specialized proteins are known as enzymes, which have tremendous catalytic power. They have high specificity for their substrates and play the role of reaction catalysts of biological systems. Enzymes possess a high capacity to accelerate chemical reactions and function in aqueous … Read more >>
In this article, I briefly describe the metabolism of fuel in fasting and starvation. Hormonal and metabolic adaptations Animals can withstand prolonged periods of starvation by adjuring a comprehensive program of hormonal and metabolic adaptations. This type of adaptation mainly provides glucose for the brain and fat-derived fuels for most of the other tissues of … Read more >>
In this article, I briefly describe the maintenance of blood glucose levels by the hormones insulin and glucagon. Hormones Our endocrine system employs internal chemical messengers as hormones. These are produced by certain specific cell types. Hormones regulate the function of another tissue by binding to a distant cellular receptor. For binding with a receptor, … Read more >>