Description: Biochemistry is a scientific discipline that focuses on the chemical processes and substances occurring within living organisms. This branch of science combines principles from biology and chemistry to understand how biological molecules, such as proteins, nucleic acids, carbohydrates, and lipids, interact and contribute to the vital functions of living beings. Biochemistry not only studies the composition and structure of these molecules but also the chemical reactions that enable life, such as the metabolism of nutrients and the synthesis of biomolecules. Its relevance is fundamental in various fields, including medicine, biotechnology, and pharmacology, as it provides the necessary knowledge to develop innovative treatments and therapies. Additionally, biochemistry is essential for research in genetics, where the mechanisms of inheritance and gene expression are explored. In summary, biochemistry is an integral science that helps unravel the mysteries of life at the molecular level, offering a deep understanding of biological processes and their relationship with health and the environment.
History: Biochemistry as a discipline began to take shape in the 19th century when scientists like Friedrich Wohler and Emil Fischer conducted experiments that demonstrated that organic compounds could be synthesized from inorganic substances. In 1903, the term ‘biochemistry’ was first used by German chemist Karl Friedrich von Voit. Throughout the 20th century, biochemistry rapidly expanded, especially with the discovery of the structure of DNA by James Watson and Francis Crick in 1953, which laid the groundwork for molecular biology. Since then, biochemistry has evolved to include modern techniques such as DNA sequencing and proteomics, becoming a key discipline in biomedical research and biotechnology.
Uses: Biochemistry has multiple applications in various fields. In medicine, it is used to develop diagnostics and treatments for diseases by understanding the biochemical processes involved. In biotechnology, it is applied in the production of drugs, vaccines, and industrial enzymes. Additionally, biochemistry is fundamental in genetic research, where inheritance mechanisms are studied and genetic editing techniques, such as CRISPR, are developed. It is also used in agriculture to enhance crop productivity and develop biopesticides.
Examples: A practical example of biochemistry is the use of enzymes in the food industry, where they are employed to improve the texture and flavor of products. Another example is the development of therapies based on monoclonal antibodies to treat diseases. In the research field, biochemistry enables the creation of diagnostic tests, such as PCR tests, which detect genetic material from pathogens in clinical samples.
