Biochemistry and Molecular Biology: How Life Works Season 1 Episode 3

Ep 3. Amino Acids: 20 Building Blocks of Life

  • TV-PG
  • September 13, 2019
  • 29 min

Biochemistry and Molecular Biology: How Life Works is a fascinating television series that delves into the world of the cellular and molecular level of organisms. In season 1, episode 3, titled "Amino Acids: 20 Building Blocks of Life," viewers are taken on a journey to explore the fundamental building blocks of life, amino acids.

Throughout the episode, viewers are presented with a detailed explanation of amino acids and their essential role in the structure and function of proteins. The episode is divided into segments, with each section exploring the complex world of amino acids and their unique interactions within biological systems.

The first segment of the episode outlines the general structure of amino acids. Viewers will learn that amino acids are organic compounds that contain both a carboxyl group and an amino group. The carboxyl group consists of a carbon atom, two oxygen atoms, and a hydrogen atom, while the amino group comprises of a nitrogen atom and two hydrogen atoms. This segment also highlights the importance of the side chain, or the R-group, which gives each amino acid its unique characteristics.

In the second segment, viewers are introduced to the different types of amino acids. There are 20 amino acids found in nature, all of which are essential for life. The episode dives into the different categories of amino acids, including those that are nonpolar, polar, acidic, and basic. Viewers will also learn about the role of the peptide bond, which is formed by the linkage of two amino acids and is crucial for the formation of polypeptides and proteins.

The third segment focuses on the synthesis of amino acids. Viewers are taught about the various ways in which amino acids can be synthesized, including by organisms themselves or by ingesting them through food. The episode also explores the role of enzymes in the synthesis of amino acids and the challenges that these enzymes must overcome to ensure the proper synthesis of amino acids.

Moving on, the fourth segment examines the importance of protein structure. Proteins are made up of long chains of amino acids, each with a unique sequence and side-chain. The episode looks specifically at the different levels of protein structure, including primary, secondary, tertiary, and quaternary structure. Viewers will also learn about the importance of protein folding, which is necessary for the proper functioning of proteins.

The fifth and final segment of the episode explores the role of amino acids and proteins in biological systems. Viewers will learn about the many functions of proteins, including their role in the immune system, as enzymes, and in structural support. The episode also dives into the importance of amino acids and proteins in metabolism, as well as the implications of protein misfolding and the diseases that can result from it.

Overall, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology: How Life Works season 1 episode 3 is a comprehensive exploration of the world of amino acids and proteins. Viewers are presented with in-depth explanations of the structure, synthesis, and functions of these essential building blocks of life. Whether you're a science enthusiast or just curious about the world around us, this episode of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology: How Life Works is sure to be an engaging and informative watch.

Description
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Biochemistry and Molecular Biology: How Life Works, Season 1 Episode 3, is available to watch and stream on The Great Courses Signature Collection. You can also buy, rent Biochemistry and Molecular Biology: How Life Works on demand at Amazon Prime, Amazon online.
  • First Aired
    September 13, 2019
  • Content Rating
    TV-PG
  • Runtime
    29 min
  • Language
    English