Lecture 2: Intro to Biochem

Question 1

Why is the tertiary (3D) structure of a protein important?

Answer 1

It determines the function of a protein

Question 2

What determines how a protein folds?

Answer 2

The sequence of amino acids

Question 3

What are some key questions biochemists ask?

Answer 3

1. How do cells sense and respond to their environments?
2. How do cells make and break molecules?
3. How do cells make energy from food?
   
   • In plants: energy from sun is converted into chemical energy via photosynthesis
   • In animals: cells release energy stored in food via oxidation reactions
   • ATP is a key product for animals and plants

Question 4

What type of interaction is key to cellular function?

Answer 4

Molecular interactions