Componentes químicos dos seres vivos - Aula 01 - Módulo 1 - Bioquímica - Prof. Guilherme

Introduction to Module 1 of Biology

Overview of the Course Structure

• The course begins with Module 1, focusing on biochemistry and cellular biology, consisting of over 200 classes across eight modules.

• Emphasizes the importance of a solid foundation in biochemistry and cellular biology for understanding histology, human physiology, embryology, and plant physiology.

Course Content Breakdown

• The module is divided into two main areas: biochemistry followed by cellular biology.

• Topics will include chemical components of living beings, types of cells, cell structures, functions, and cell multiplication.

Chemical Components of Living Beings

Comparison Across Species

• Discussion on the minimal chemical differences among various organisms like whales, humans, bacteria, and jellyfish despite functional complexity.

• All living beings consist mainly of inorganic (water and salts) and organic components (carbohydrates, lipids, proteins).

Key Chemical Elements

• Approximately 98% of an organism's mass comprises six key elements: carbon (C), hydrogen (H), oxygen (O), nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and sulfur (S).

• Carbon is present in all organic molecules; it must be associated with hydrogen to classify as organic.

Importance of Organic Molecules

Essential Elements in Organic Chemistry

• Carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen are fundamental to organic molecules; examples include glucose which contains C6H12O6.

• Nitrogen plays a crucial role in forming genetic material such as DNA/RNA and is also found in ATP.

Role of Phosphorus and Sulfur

• Phosphorus is vital for ATP production and structural integrity in DNA; it contributes to bone rigidity through calcium phosphate.

Understanding the Essential Components of Life

Overview of Life's Basic Needs

• All known forms of life on Earth require six essential nutrients for survival, which include both inorganic and organic components.

• Inorganic components consist of water and salts, while organic components include carbohydrates (glicídios), lipids, proteins, nucleic acids, and vitamins.

Distribution of Components in Organisms

• A significant majority (approximately 75-85%) of most organisms is composed of water; however, this percentage can vary with age and species.

• For instance, elderly individuals may have around 63-64% water content in their bodies compared to jellyfish that can be up to 98-99% water.

Abundance of Biological Molecules

• After water, proteins are the next most abundant component in organisms. This has been a topic in various examinations.

• Following proteins are lipids (2-3%), carbohydrates (1%), nucleic acids (1%), and other elements making up less than 1%.

Minor Components and Their Importance

• The least abundant components include salts and vitamins, which play crucial regulatory roles in bodily functions.

Conclusion and Study Approach