(Q4) Embalming Chemistry: Introduction to Proteins and Enzymes

Question 1

What is embalming?

Answer 1

The process of chemically treating the dead human body to reduce the presence and growth of microorganisms, to slow decomposition, and to restore an acceptable physical appearance

Question 2

Primary Purpose of Embalming

Answer 2

• Disinfection: Destruction or inhibition of pathogenic organisms in or on the body
• Protecting the Public Health

Question 3

Secondary Purpose of Embalming

Answer 3

• Preservation: To temporarily inhibit decomposition between death and final disposition
• Delay Decomposition long enough to hold a funeral

Question 4

Third Purpose of Embalming

Answer 4

• Restoration: Recreation of natural form and color
• To give family and friends a positive and healing viewing experience

Question 5

Proteins

Answer 5

• Fundamental building blocks for cells and tissues (muscle, bone, etc)
• Relatively large molecules
• Polymers for amino acids (amino acids are the fundamental building blocks for proteins)

Question 6

Amino Acids

Answer 6

• Molecules used by all living things to make proteins
• The building blocks of proteins
• Composed of Amines: R-NH2 and Organic Acids: R-COOH

Question 7

What two organic compounds are found in amino acids?

Answer 7

• Amines: R-NH2
• Organic Acids: R-COOH

Question 8

Peptide Bonds

Answer 8

• The bonds that hold amino acids together in protein molecules
• A covalent chemical bond formed when a carboxyl group reacts with an amino group, releasing water

Question 9

What happens when a peptide bond is formed?

Answer 9

Water is released

Question 10

Hydrolysis

Answer 10

• A substance breaking down in the presence of water
• When water is added, a peptide bond is broken
• This is decomposition

Question 11

Enzymes

Answer 11

• Biological Catalysts: they speed up chemical reactions
• Enzymes increase the rate of decomposition
• After somatic death, enzymes do not stop their reactions
• Enzymes also contribute to decomposition

Question 12

Autolysis (pertaining to enzymes)

Answer 12

• Auto=self, Lysis=breaking apart
• The self-digestion in cells by enzymes in the cells themselves

Question 13

What are the primary purposes of embalming/embalming chemicals from a chemical perspective?

Answer 13

• Inhibit proteins from breaking apart
• Neutralize enzymes