Book Understanding Bioanalytical Chemistry-Principles and Applications by BlackWell

Book Understanding Bioanalytical Chemistry-Principles and Applications by BlackWell

Bioanalytical chemistry relies on the identification and characterization of particles and compounds, particularly those involved with life and health processes. Living matter comprises certain key elements, and in mammals the most abundant of these, representing around 97% of dry weight of humans, are: carbon (C), nitrogen (N), oxygen (O), hydrogen (H), calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P) and sulfur (S). However, other elements such as sodium (Na), potassium (K), magnesium (Mg) and chlorine (Cl), although less abundant, nevertheless play a very significant role in organ function. In addition, miniscule amounts of so-called trace elements, including iron (Fe), play vital roles, regulating biochemical pathways and biological function. By definition, biomolecules are naturally occurring chemical compounds found in living organisms that are constructed from various combinations of key chemical elements. Not surprisingly there are fundamental similarities in the way organisms use such biomolecules to perform diverse tasks such as propagating the species and genetic information, and maintaining energy production and utilization. From this it is evident that much can be learned about the functionality of life processes in higher mammals through the study of micro-organisms and single cells. Indeed, the study of yeast and bacteria allowed genetic mapping before the Human Genome Project. This chapter provides an introduction to significant biomolecules of importance in the life and health sciences, covering their major properties and basic characteristics..................