Biochemistry is the branch of science that studies the chemical processes and substances that occur within living organisms. It combines biology and chemistry to understand how life works at a molecular level. What Does Biochemistry Focus On? Biomolecules: Proteins – responsible for structure, function, and regulation of the body’s cells and organs. Carbohydrates – provide energy. Lipids (fats) – store energy and make up cell membranes. Nucleic acids (DNA & RNA) – store and transmit genetic information. Metabolism: The chemical reactions that convert food into energy and building blocks for the body. Includes pathways like glycolysis, the Krebs cycle, and oxidative phosphorylation. Enzymes: Special proteins that speed up (catalyse) chemical reactions in the body. Cell Signaling: How cells communicate using hormones and other chemical messengers. Genetic Biochemistry: How genes are expressed and regulated, and how mutations can lead to disease. Why Is Biochemistry Important? It explains how the body functions on a chemical level. Helps understand disease mechanisms and develop new treatments. Is fundamental to medicine, nutrition, pharmacology, genetics, and biotechnology. In healthcare, clinical biochemistry involves testing body fluids (like blood and urine) to diagnose and monitor diseases—e.g., checking blood sugar in diabetes or liver enzymes in liver disease. In simple terms, biochemistry helps us understand the chemistry of life.