Biochemistry Flashcard

Front

What is the Urea cycle?

Back

The Urea cycle is a series of chemical reactions in the liver that convert ammonia, a toxic byproduct of protein metabolism, into urea, which is excreted in urine.

Front

How does a high-protein diet affect urinary urea levels?

Back

A diet rich in protein increases urinary urea levels due to the increased production of ammonia from amino acid breakdown.

Front

What is the role of Complex IV in the electron transport chain?

Back

Complex IV, also known as cytochrome c oxidase, oxidizes cytochrome c and reduces oxygen to water, playing a crucial role in cellular respiration.

Front

What effect does fasting have on glucokinase activity?

Back

Fasting inhibits glucokinase activity, reducing glucose uptake and storage in the liver.

Front

What is the significance of lipoic acid in metabolism?

Back

Lipoic acid is a cofactor for the enzyme pyruvate dehydrogenase, which catalyzes the conversion of pyruvate to acetyl CoA, a key step in energy production.

Front

What is Phenylketonuria (PKU)?

Back

PKU is a genetic disorder caused by the deficiency of the enzyme phenylalanine hydroxylase, leading to the accumulation of phenylalanine, which can cause intellectual disability.

Front

What is the primary function of glucokinase?

Back

Glucokinase facilitates the phosphorylation of glucose to glucose-6-phosphate, a key step in glucose metabolism.

Front

Where does the urea cycle occur in the cell?

Back

The urea cycle primarily occurs in the liver, specifically in the mitochondria and cytosol.

Front

What is the role of ammonia in the urea cycle?

Back

Ammonia is a nitrogen source that enters the urea cycle and is converted into urea for excretion.

Front

What is the relationship between pyruvate and acetyl CoA?

Back

Pyruvate is converted to acetyl CoA in the mitochondria, linking glycolysis to the citric acid cycle.