Table of contents

1. Introduction to Biochemistry4h 34m
2. Water3h 23m
3. Amino Acids8h 10m
4. Protein Structure10h 4m
5. Protein Techniques14h 5m
6. Enzymes and Enzyme Kinetics13h 38m
7. Enzyme Inhibition and Regulation 8h 42m
8. Protein Function 9h 41m
9. Carbohydrates7h 49m
10. Lipids5h 49m
11. Biological Membranes and Transport 6h 37m
12. Biosignaling9h 45m
Review 1: Nucleic Acids, Lipids, & Membranes2h 47m
Review 2: Biosignaling, Glycolysis, Gluconeogenesis, & PP-Pathway3h 12m
Review 3: Pyruvate & Fatty Acid Oxidation, Citric Acid Cycle, & Glycogen Metabolism2h 26m
Review 4: Amino Acid Oxidation, Oxidative Phosphorylation, & Photophosphorylation1h 48m

3. Amino Acids

Essential Amino Acids

Biochemistry

3. Amino Acids

Essential Amino Acids

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Multiple Choice

In the context of biochemistry, what does it mean when a fatty acid is considered 'essential'?

It is only required during periods of rapid growth.

It cannot be synthesized by the human body and must be obtained from the diet.

It can be synthesized from glucose via glycolysis.

It is the most abundant fatty acid in cell membranes.

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Verified step by step guidance

Understand the term 'essential' in biochemistry: Essential fatty acids are those that the human body cannot synthesize on its own. This is due to the absence of specific enzymes required to introduce double bonds at certain positions in the fatty acid chain.

Recognize the importance of dietary intake: Since essential fatty acids cannot be produced by the body, they must be obtained through the diet to support vital biological functions such as cell membrane structure, signaling pathways, and the production of eicosanoids.

Differentiate essential fatty acids from other fatty acids: Non-essential fatty acids can be synthesized by the body from precursors like glucose or other fatty acids, whereas essential fatty acids, such as linoleic acid (omega-6) and alpha-linolenic acid (omega-3), cannot.

Eliminate incorrect options: The statement 'It is only required during periods of rapid growth' is incorrect because essential fatty acids are required throughout life. The statement 'It can be synthesized from glucose via glycolysis' is incorrect because essential fatty acids cannot be synthesized by the body. The statement 'It is the most abundant fatty acid in cell membranes' is incorrect because essential fatty acids are not necessarily the most abundant but are crucial for specific functions.

Conclude with the correct answer: Essential fatty acids are defined as those that cannot be synthesized by the human body and must be obtained from the diet.