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Mind Map: Chemistry and Metabolism of Amino Acids -2 | Biochemistry - NEET PG PDF Download

Mind Map: Chemistry and Metabolism of Amino Acids -2 | Biochemistry - NEET PG

The document Mind Map: Chemistry and Metabolism of Amino Acids -2 | Biochemistry - NEET PG is a part of the NEET PG Course Biochemistry.
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FAQs on Mind Map: Chemistry and Metabolism of Amino Acids -2 - Biochemistry - NEET PG

1. What are the essential functions of amino acids in human metabolism?
Ans. Amino acids play several critical roles in human metabolism. They are the building blocks of proteins, which are essential for growth, repair, and maintenance of body tissues. Amino acids also participate in the synthesis of hormones and neurotransmitters, contributing to various physiological processes such as mood regulation and metabolic control. Additionally, they can serve as precursors for important biomolecules, including nucleotides and enzymes, and some amino acids can be converted into energy through gluconeogenesis or ketogenesis, especially during periods of fasting or intense exercise.
2. How are amino acids classified, and what are the different categories?
Ans. Amino acids are classified into several categories based on their side chains and metabolic functions. The primary classifications are: 1. Essential amino acids: These cannot be synthesized by the body and must be obtained from the diet. Examples include leucine, lysine, and valine. 2. Non-essential amino acids: These can be synthesized by the body, such as alanine, aspartic acid, and glutamic acid. 3. Conditional amino acids: These are usually non-essential but may become essential in times of illness or stress, like arginine and cysteine. 4. Aromatic amino acids: These contain an aromatic ring and include phenylalanine, tyrosine, and tryptophan, which are important for neurotransmitter synthesis.
3. What is the role of amino acids in protein synthesis and how does the process work?
Ans. Amino acids are crucial for protein synthesis, which occurs through a process called translation. During translation, ribosomes read the sequence of messenger RNA (mRNA) and recruit transfer RNA (tRNA) molecules that carry specific amino acids. Each tRNA has an anticodon that pairs with the corresponding codon on the mRNA. As the ribosome moves along the mRNA strand, amino acids are linked together by peptide bonds, forming a polypeptide chain that folds into a functional protein. This process is regulated by various factors, including the availability of amino acids and the presence of specific signaling molecules.
4. What are the metabolic pathways involved in amino acid catabolism?
Ans. Amino acid catabolism primarily involves several metabolic pathways, including transamination, deamination, and the urea cycle. In transamination, amino groups from amino acids are transferred to α-ketoglutarate to form glutamate and a corresponding α-keto acid. Deamination then removes the amino group from glutamate, producing ammonia and α-ketoglutarate, which can enter the Krebs cycle. The urea cycle processes ammonia into urea, which is excreted in urine. Additionally, some amino acids can be converted into glucose (gluconeogenesis) or fatty acids (lipogenesis) based on the body's needs.
5. What are the consequences of amino acid deficiencies in the human body?
Ans. Deficiencies in essential amino acids can lead to a range of health issues. For instance, a lack of lysine can result in impaired protein synthesis, leading to muscle wasting and weakened immunity. Deficiency in tryptophan can affect serotonin production, potentially causing mood disorders. Moreover, inadequate intake of branched-chain amino acids (leucine, isoleucine, valine) can lead to fatigue and reduced exercise performance. Long-term deficiencies can cause growth retardation in children, impaired cognitive function, and an increased risk of infections due to compromised immune responses.
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