The biological significance of cholesterol in the human body is vast and multifaceted, involving its role in cell membrane structure, as a precursor for vital compounds, and more. Here’s an organized explanation of Biological significance of cholesterol: Cell Membrane Structure and Function: Cholesterol is essential in animal cell membranes, helping to maintain the right fluidity … Read more
De novo synthesis of fatty acids refers to the process by which fatty acids are synthesized from simpler precursors, such as acetyl-CoA and malonyl-CoA. Palmitic acid (C16:0) is the primary product of this synthesis in humans. The process of mainly occurs in the cytosol of hepatocytes (liver cells) and adipocytes (fat cells). Key Steps in the … Read more
Ketoacidosis is a serious condition characterized by the accumulation of ketone bodies in the blood, leading to a decrease in blood pH and resulting in metabolic acidosis. Definition and Pathophysiology: Ketoacidosis is a pathological condition characterized by elevated levels of ketone bodies in the blood, leading to a decrease in blood pH. It occurs when … Read more
Ketone bodies are water-soluble molecules produced by the liver as an alternative energy source when glucose is scarce, such as during fasting, prolonged exercise, or a low-carbohydrate diet. The three main ketone bodies are acetoacetate, beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB), and acetone. Formation of ketone bodies (ketogenesis): Location: Mitochondria of liver cells When glucose levels are low, fatty … Read more
β-Oxidation is the primary pathway for breaking down fatty acids to generate energy. In this process, fatty acids are converted into acetyl-CoA, which enters the citric acid cycle (TCA cycle) to produce ATP. Here’s a detailed explanation of the beta-oxidation of palmitic acid, a saturated fatty acid with 16 carbons (C16:0). 1. Activation and Transport into … Read more
Polymorphism is the ability of a solid material, particularly a drug, to exist in more than one crystalline form, each having distinct physical and chemical properties such as melting point, solubility, and stability. Polymorphism Types: Enantiotropic Polymorphs: Can reversibly transform from one form to another based on temperature or pressure. Monotropic Polymorphs: Irreversible transformation; one … Read more
Masking and demasking are techniques used to selectively protect or reveal certain ions or functional groups during chemical reactions or analysis. These techniques are particularly useful in complex mixtures to control the reactivity of specific components and prevent unwanted side reactions. 1. Masking: Masking involves temporarily protecting a specific ion or group by forming a … Read more
Metal ion indicators, also known as chelating indicators or metallochromic indicators, are organic compounds that form colored complexes with metal ions. They are used in complexometric titrations to detect the endpoint, which occurs when all the metal ions in the sample have reacted with the chelating agent. Indicators are selected based on their ability to … Read more
Flow properties describe how powders or granules move under force, critical for efficient processing in pharmaceutical and industrial applications. Good flow properties ensure uniform mixing, accurate dosing, and smooth manufacturing, reducing defects and improving product quality. Definition: The ability of powder particles to flow under gravity or mechanical force. Factors Affecting Flow: Particle Size: Fine … Read more
Classification of Complexometric Titrations is based on the type of metal ion determined, the titration method used, and the nature of the indicator or masking agents involved. Direct Titration in Classification of Complexometric Titrations: In this method, metal ions in the sample are titrated directly with a chelating agent, such as EDTA. The endpoint is … Read more
