The Role of Biochemistry in our Immune System

Biochemistry is the study of how cells work at the molecular level. It is the interplay of biology and chemistry, using it to study the structures, compositions, and chemical reactions of living organisms. It comprises many branches, such as molecular biology, immunology, cell biology, and genetics.

How does biochemistry play a role in our lives? 

Biochemistry is used in many areas such as health care, nutrition, and agriculture. It is crucial in understanding the molecular mechanisms behind diseases and their cures. From cosmetics to health care, biochemistry is used in our everyday life. For example, it helps in producing medicines and cleaning products, improves the quality and quantity of food, and improves DNA recombinant technology, which is used to make essential molecules such as insulin and food additives. 

Our immune system comprises complex tissues, cells, organs, and proteins, enabling it to fight off diseases, infections, harmful bacteria, and pathogens. If it detects any harmful or unwanted substance in the body, it will produce an immune response against it to protect the body. However, we cannot always rely on the immune system. Sometimes, it may not be able to work as efficiently as the person may have a health condition or may require some medicines to help the immune system.  Biochemistry plays a vital role in describing the functions of vitamins in our body. Millions of people take vitamins and mineral supplements to improve their health. As all diseases have a molecular basis, biochemistry helps us to understand the chemical processes behind conditions like diabetes, jaundice, anemia, kidney dysfunction, etc. After investigating such conditions, biochemists work on the treatments or cures for them. A drug is responsible for some changes in the biochemical processes of the body. Biochemical testing looks into side effects, metabolism, storage conditions, and mode of action of the drug.  

Biochemistry is a growing field and is essential in many different aspects. We can conclude that biochemistry plays an important role not only in our immune system and health but also in our everyday lives. 

Reference List

Hidaya Aliouche, B.Sc (2022). News-Medical. [online] News-Medical. Available at: https://www.news-medical.net/life-sciences/Biochemistry-in-Everyday-Life.aspx.

Newman, T. (2018). How the immune system works. [online] Medicalnewstoday.com. Available at: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320101.

‌SRG. (2024). The importance of biochemistry in medical science | Science, Engineering & Life Science Recruitment, Jobs & Staffing | SRG. [online] Available at: https://www.srgtalent.com/blog/the-importance-of-biochemistry-in-medical-science.