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The document provides information about a biochemistry book titled 'Oraby's Biochemistry' by Said Oraby.

The book is intended to provide necessary knowledge and recent information about biochemistry for medical students and allied sciences.

Key features of the book include efforts to simplify subjects, inclusion of latest advances in biochemistry important to medicine, many illustrations, and a new part with questions and answers for practice.

Oraby's Illustrated Reviews of

For Medical Students


And Postgraduates

By

M.B.B.Ch, M.S. (Clinical Pathology) M .S. & MD (Medical Biochemistry)

Professor of Medical Bioche11zistry, Faculty ofMedicine,


Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt

Professor of Medical Bioche11zistry, Faculty of Medicine,


Otnar Al-Mukhtar University, Al-Baida, Libya

(I I)

Twelfth Edition
I
D£DICATION.
T() IllY wife

Note:
Dear student I colleague:
If you have any comment about this edition or further editions , please
mail your suggestions to: m s [email protected].
Oraby's illustrated reviews of Biochemistry

Copyright© 2013

All rights reserved

First publication: 1983


~d edition 1984
~ edition 1986
4tn edition 1988
5tn edition 1990
fJh edition 1992
fh edition 1995
fih edition 1998
gtn edition 2001
1dh edition 2004
11 1h edition 2007
Reprinted 2008
Reprinted 2009
121h edition 2011
Reprinted 2013

2005 - 14489 t \~)'\ r-S.)


977- 224- 368- 7 JJ.ll\ ~jll\
Contents
Chapter 1: Bioenergetics and Biologic oxidation •
• Respiratory chain
------16
• Oxidative phosphorylation 11

Chapter 2: Carbohydrate metabolism:- 18


• Digestion and absorption 18
• Glucose oxidation 24
o Major pathway: glycolysis, oxidative decarboxylation of keto adds and 24
citric add cycle
o Pentose phosphate pathway 47
o Uronlc add pathway 54
• Glycogen metabolism 55
• Gluconeogenesis 65
• Metabolism of fructose and galactose 72
• Blood glucose 76
o Level and sources 76
o Regulation of blood glucose 76
o Hypoglycemia 80
o Diabetes mellitus 83
o Glycosuria 93

Chapter 3: Lipid metabolism - 95


• Digestion and absorption 95
• Fate of absorbed lipids 99
• Storage and mobilization of lipids 101
• Lipogenesis (triacylglycerols synthesis) 102
• Lipolysis 103
• Fatty acids oxidation 106
• Sources and fate of acetyl CoA 112
• Fatty acids synthesis 113
• Eicosanoids 120
• Metabolism of conjugated lipids 124
• Ketone bodies 128
• Cholesterol metabolism 133
• Plasma lipoproteins 139
• Apollpoproteins 150
• Plasma lipoproteins and atherosclerosis 151
• Fatty liver 154
• Functions of lipids 156

Chapter 4: Integration of metabolism - - - - - - - • 157

Chapter 5: cancer, oncogenes, tumor markers and apoptosls - - 168

Chapter 6: Hormones - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 181


Contents of part I In brief
Chapter 1: Carbol•ydrate of physiologic importance. I
• Monosaccharides 2
• Disaccharldes 14
• Polysaccharides 17
• Proteoglycans and glycoprotelns 24
Chapter 2: Lipids of pl1ysiologic importance • • . . • • . • • • 27
• Classification of lipids 27
• Fatty acids 29
• Simple lipids and trlacylglycerols 35
• Complex lipids 39
• Derived lipids (sterols and steroids) 48
Chapter 3: Proteins of physiologic importance • . • • . . • . . 63
• Amino acids 63
• Peptldes 75
• Protein structure 78
• Simple proteins 85
• Conjugated proteins 90
• Derived proteins 93
• Techniques for separation of amino acids and proteins 94
• Hemoproteins 98
Chapter 4: Chemistry of nucleoproteins, nucleotides and nucleic
acids. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... 102
Chapter 5: Enzyme .... • . . . . . • • . . • . . • . • . • . • • 116
Chapter 6: Vitamins. . • • . . . • . • • . . • • • • • . • • . 140
Chapter 7: Digestion, absorption, fermentation and putrefaction . .
173
Chapter 8: Metabolism of xenobiotics.. . • • . . . . • . • 186
Chapter 9: Cell and cell membrane .... . . . . • • • • . . . . 190
Chapter 10: Biochemistry of teeth • . . • • . . . . . • . 200
Chapter 11: Nutrition • • • . . • • . • • . . . . • • . . 203
Chapter 12: Phy."ical chemistry .. • . . . . • . • . . • • 218

Contents of part Ill In brief


Chapter 1: Protein Metabolism • . . • . • • . . . . . • •
• Protein digestion and amino acids absorption
• General catabolic pathways of amino acids: Transamination,
Deamination , Transdeamination and Decarboxylation
• Ammonia and urea
• Catabolism and biosynthesis amino acids
• Conversion of amino acids Into specialized products
Chapter 2: Porphyrin ... , Heme And Hemoglobin Metabolism.. • 72
• Heme synthesis and Hemoglobin metabolism
• Bilirubin formation and jaundice
Chapter 3: Body fluids. . • . • • • • . . . • 90
Chapter 4: lmmunochemi.o;try. •.•• , • • • 157
• Immunoglobulins and Antigens
Chapter 5: Minerals And Water Metabolism. • • • • • • 167
Chapter 6: Acid Base Balance. . . • • . . • . • • . . . • • 153
Chapter 7: N11cleotide Metabolism • • , • • • . • • . . • , • 168
Chapter 8: Molecular Biology (Nucleic Acid Metabolism).. 183
• Nucleic acids (structure and functions)
• DNA synthesis (replication) and DNA repair
• RNA synthesis (transcription)
• Protein synthesis (translation)
• Regulation of gene expression
• Molecular biology techniques and recombinant DNA technology
Chapter 1 CBioenergetics and
CBio{ogic o~itfation

CBioenergetics
1. DEFINITIONS:
A. Energy is the capacity to do work. It may be mechanical, chemical or
electrical energy.
B. Bioenergetics or thermodynamics is the study of the energy changes
accompanying biochemical reactions.

AG: CHANGE IN FREE ENERGY


II. TYPES OF ENERGY: e e.tcrgy OYIIUOIIIo to do WOrk.
• ApproochCHI zoro aa rooctlon
A. Heat energy: is used to maintain body procoodo to equl!lbl'lum.
• Prod!cta whothor a rooctlon ID
temperature. tovoroblo.

AH: CHANGE IN ENTHALPY


• Hoot roloosod or aboorbed
B. Free energy, = Delta G = (~ G): during o rooctlon.

1. Is useful energy for body activities as


muscle contraction, nerve impulse etc.
2. The direction of chemical reaction is
determined by 2 factors:
a) Heat content (AH) of both reactant
.\S: CHANGE IN ENTROPY
and product. It is called enthalpy. • Mooeuro of rondomnosa.

b) Randomness (A S) or disorder of e Dooa not prodlct wtlaltler o


roactlon .. lovoralllo.

both reactant and product. It is


called: entropy. Relation between changes In free
energy (G). enthalpy (H) and entropy
(S). T is the absolute tem~rature in
c) Combination of the 2 factors enthalpy degrees Kelvin (°K): ~ = C + 273.
(AH) - entropy (A S) will make a third
factor called free energy (A G). So every substance has free
energy, which determines the direction of reaction.
C. Forms of free energy (Free energy change, ~ G):
If we consider a reaction as follows: A B
I. The direction of reaction may be A --. B or B --. A.

2. Negative exergonlc -AG: (A -+ B): if AG is a negative number,


this means that the free energy content of product (B) is less than
that of product (A).

- 1-
Oraby's illustrated review of biochemistry 2

a) The reaction proceeds spontaneously in the cell from A ~B. It is


irreversible.
b) The reaction is said to be exergonlc.
c) In these reactions there is a net loss of energy. This energy is
used to form ATP. The compounds derived from food stuff
intermediates (e.g. phosphoenol pyruvate, creatine phosphate
etc) lose energy (-P) to form ATP.
d) Examples:
(i) Complete oxidation of creatine phosphate gives rise 10.3
Kcallmol. In vitro this energy is lost in the form of heat. In
vivo most of energy (-AG 7 Kcallmol is used to form ATP).
The remaining energy (-AG 3 Kcal/mol) is used to maintain
body temperature.
©reatine-P + ADP ~ Creatine + ATP + -AG 3 Kcallmoll
(ii) Complete oxidation of phosphoenol pyruvate gives rise
14.8 Kcallmol. In vitro this energy is lost in the form of
heat. In vivo most of energy (·AG 7 Kcallmol is used to
form ATP). The remaining energy (·AG 7.5 Kcal/mol) is
used to maintain body temperature.
!Phosphenol pyruvate + ADP ~ Pyruvate + ATP + -AG 7.5 Kcallmoll

3. Positive endergonlc +AG: (B ~ A) if AG is positive number, this

means that the free energy content of (B) is more than that of
product (A).
a) There is net gain of energy.
b) The reaction does not go spontaneously from B to A except
after addition of energy (ATP) from another source. This
source is the catabolism of carbohydrate, lipids (fatty acids)
and amino acids.
c) The reaction is said to be endergonlc

B A
Energy (ATP)
t
Carbohydrate
Lipids
Amino acids

d) Examples:
!Creatine+ ATP ~ Creatine-P + ADP + +AG 1.5 Kcallmoll
Bioenergetics and biologic oxidation 3

4. aG Is zero: if AG = 0, the reactants, are in equilibrium. [Note:


when a reaction is proceeding spontaneously - that is free
energy is being lost, then the reaction continues until AG
reaches zero and equilibrium Is established].
s. The exergonlc reactions (energy producing reactions) are called:
catabolism e.g. glycolysis and fatty acids oxidation. The
endergonlc reactions (energy utilizing reactions) are called:
anabolism e.g. synthesis of glycogen and fatty acids. Both
catabolism and anabolism constitute metabolism.

III.ATP ACTS AS AN ENERGY CARRIER:


A. Introduction:
1. The free energy made available through the catabolism of fuels
(carbohydrates, lipids, and amino acids) is not transmitted directly
to the reactions requiring energy. Instead it is used to synthesize a
compound that acts as a carrier of free energy, which is adenosine
triphosphate (ATP).
2. ATP·ADP cycle: It is the relationship between ATP generation and
its utilization into ADP. ATP molecules are generated by exorgenic
reactions. They are utilized (endergonic reactions) for different
body works.

Free energy from fuels (food stuffs)

"-. (Exorgenic reactions)

Catabolism

ADP
ATP

(Endergonic reactions)
Anabolism
Biologic body work
A1P Is the link between energy-producing and energy-consuming
biologic processes (ATP-ADP cycle). orahy

B. Structure:
I. It is a member of a class of compounds called nucleotide
triphosphates (ATP, GTP, UTP, CTP and TTP).
Oraby's illustrated review of biochemistry 4

2. It has 3 component parts: a nitrogenous base (adenine), a sugar


(ribose) and 3 phosphoryl groups that are joined to ribose by a
phosphate ester bond and to each other by phospho-anhydride
bonds.

N~
t~)
}
Adenine

o- o- o- N N
1 I I
-o-P-O-P-O-P-O-CH2
A A 8 1/o,
~~-- ~~
H 1""""r H
} RiOO~
Triphosphate moiety HO OH

Structure of ATP.

C. Importance of ATP:
1. The most important parts of the ATP molecule are its 2-
phosphoanhydrlde bonds (bonds between phosphate molecules
number 1 &2 and 2&3). Breakdown of either of these bonds is
accompanied by a large decrease in free energy i.e. release
energy.
~------------------------------------------~

ATP ------.....;)• ADP +Pi

ATP ------+--~· AMP + PPi

t
7.3 Kcal/ mol

2. Any bond whose breakdown is accompanied by a large decrease in


free energy (~ 5 Kcal/mol) is termed a high energy bond and
represented by the symbol (- ).
3. Breakdown of one high energy bond of ATP gives 7.3 Kcal.
4. Because ATP has two high energy bonds, it can serve as a link
between energy yielding processes or exergonlc reactions (e.g.
catabolism of glucose and fatty acids) and energy requiring
processes or endergonlc reactions (e.g. anabolic pathways).
a) Catabolic reactions give energy, which can be stored in the form
of ATP.
b) Anabolic reactions can utilize energy through hydrolysis of ATP.
Bioenergetics and biologic oxidation 5

IV. UNITS OF FREE ENERGY:


A. Traditional units (calorie}: energy measured in calories (one
calorie is the amount of energy required to raise one gram of water by
one degree (15°C-16°C).
B. Sl units (/ouleJ: energy measured in joules (one calorie = 4.128
joule).

V. CALCULATION OF CALORIES: By using Bomb calorimeter


(complete oxidation of foodstuff by burning in the presence of oxygen).
A. One gram of carbohydrate + 4 Kcal
B. One gram of fat + 9 Kcal
C. One gram of protein + 41 Kcal.

VI. DIFFERENCE BETWEEN IN VITRO AND IN VIVO OXIDATION


OF FOODSTUFF:
A. In vitro: all free energy is released as heat.
B. In vivo: part is conserved in the form ATP and the remaining is
released as heat.

VII. PHOSPHATE BONDS:


A. High energy phosphate bonds: Give rise to 7.3 Kcal/mol.
Examples:
1. ATP: Its free energy is about -7.3Kcal/mol (see before).
2. Creatine phosphate (C-P): Excess ATP is stored in the form
of C-P in muscles. Its free energy is about -10.3 Kcal/mol.
(see protein metabolism)
3. Carbomyl phosphate: Its free energy is about -12.3 Kcal/mol.
(see protein metabolism)
B. Low energy phosphate bonds: Give rise less than 7.3
Kcal/mol. Examples:
I. Glucose-1-phosphate: -5 Kcal/mol.
2. Glucose-6-phosphate: -3.3 Kcal/mol.
3. Fructose-6-phosphate: -3.8 Kcal/mol.
4. AMP: -3.4 Kcal/mol.
5. Glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate: -2.2 Kcal/mol.
Oraby's illustrated review of biochemistry 6

(]Jiofooic o~iaation
1. Introduction:
A. Energy is required to maintain the structure and function of the living
Cells. This energy is derived from oxidation of carbohydrates, lipids
and proteins of diet.
B. The energy liberated is partly converted into useful form ATP, which is
known as energy currency of the living cells.
C. Each gram of carbohydrate and protein gives about 4 Kcal on
oxidation, while each gram of fat gives about 9 Kcal.

11. Oxidation and reduction:


A. Oxidation means:
I. Addition of oxygen to a compound:
2 Cu + 0 2 ~ 2 CuO (cupric oxide).
2. Removal of hydrogen from a compound:
CH2-COOH CH-COOH
I + II
CH2-COOH HOOC-CH
Succinate Fumarate
3. Removal of electron from an ion or atom i.e. increases in
positive charges of an atom or an ion:
Fe•• + Fe+++ + e
B. Reduction means:
I. Removal of oxygen from a compound.
2. Addition of hydrogen to a compound:
0 OH
II I
CH 3 -C-COOH + 2H + CH3-CH-COOH
Pyruvate Lactate
3. Addition of electron to an ion or atom i.e. decrease in
positive charges of an atom or an ion:
Fe+++ + e + Fe••
C. Commonly the oxidation reactions are accompanied by reduction
reactions and they are called redox reactions. Redox reactions are
accompanied by energy liberation, necessary for the cells.
1. Hydrogen plays an important role in liberation of energy as
represented by the following example:
Bioenergetics and biologic oxidation 7

2 H2 + 02 -+ 2 H 20 + energy
2. In this redox reaction, H2 is oxidized while 0 2 is reduced, and if
occurs it will be accompanied by a massive energy explosion.
3. This simple example is similar to the fundamental reactions
which provide energy in the living cells, and instead of massive
energy is liberated, hydrogen must be transferred to oxygen in
gradual steps. Thus, small fractions of energy are liberated and
stored for further use.
4. Note that hydrogen atom is formed of one electron (e) and one
proton (H.). The removal of hydrogen atom or electron from a
compound is always accompanied by a release of energy.
C. Redox potential ( =electron affinity):
I. Oxygen has the highest electron affinity i.e. highest redox
potential.
2. Hydrogen has the lowest electron affinity i.e. lowest· redox
potential.
3. Redox chain:
a) It Is a chain of different compounds of
Increasing redox potentials between
hydrogen and oxygen
(a)
b) The living cells depend on redox
reactions for their energy requirements.
The reactions start by removal of H2 from
the substrate, which Is then transferred
to different components of redox chain,
and finally to oxygen to form water. Model of energy loss by big
Components of redox chains have a rock rolling down hill using two
different pathways:
redox potential higher than hydrogen and a. Direct with massive energy
production.
lower than oxygen. b. Indirect In steps with release
of small amounts of energy.
c) During hydrogen (H+ and electron)
transfer through different components of the redox chain, energy
is liberated in steps and in small utilizable amounts instead of a
massive energy production, in the form of heat, which if happens

A:,:=>c : 2~ c :H2 ~
may destroy the living cells.

etc

Hydrogen is transferred from A to B and from B to C because B has a higher


redox potential (electron affinity) than A, while C has a higher redox potential
than B... etc. In this way hydrogen (electron + H+) moves from compounds of
lower redox potential to compounds of higher redox potential.
Oraby's illustrated review of biochemistry 8

lll.Resplratory chain (also called electron transport chain):


A. Definition:
It is the final common pathway in aerobic cells by which electrons
derived from various substances are transferred to oxygen to form
water.
1. A variety of substances (carbohydrate, amino acids and fatty
acids) can use respiratory chain as a final pathway as they give
electrons to oxidized coenzymes NAo• and FAD• to form the
energy rich reduced coenzymes, NADH•, FADH2.

Glucose
Fructose
Galactose Fatty acids
1 2
Glycolysis I~ l P..Oxldatlon I
ATP NADH
NADH FADH 3
Pyruvate

NADH ..1\
AcetyiCoA

GTP

5 NADH
FAOH,
Oxldltave

~0
phosphorylation

2
ATP
An overview of fuel catabolism

2. NADH•, FADH 2 give hydrogen and a pair of electrons to electron


carriers collectively called the respiratory chain components.
3. Hydrogen and electrons flow through respiratory chain in steps
from the more electronegative component (low redox potential) to
the more electropositive substance. Oxygen is the most
electropositive component i.e. has the highest electron affinity
(=highest redox potential). So oxygen is the final acceptor of
electrons and protons in respiratory chain.
4. As electrons are passed down the respiratory chain, they lose
much of their free energy. Part of this energy can be captured
Bioen e rg e tics and btologic oxidation 9

and stored by the production of ATP from ADP and inorganic


phosphate(Pi) . This process is called oxidative pho s phorylation .
The remainder of the free energy not trapped as ATP is released as
heat
B. Org a nization of the respiratory chain :
1 . The 1nner mitochondrial membrane contains 5 separate enzyme
complexes , called complex I , II , Ill , IV and V . Complex V catalyses
ATP synthesis .
u) E ac h complex accepts or donates electrons t o relatively mobile

e lectron carriers such as coenzyme Q and cytochrome C.


h ) Ea c h carrier of electron transport chain can receive electrons

from the more electronegative donor and can subsequently


donate electrons to the next more electropositive carrier in the
chain . Finally electrons combine with oxygen and protons to
form water .

Substrat e
(reduced)

X
N~D+ .x FMNH2

'x_
Substrate
NADH+H FMN 1 1
(Oxidized) CoO Fe Fe '
c;.J,I!.JMt

Fumarate X FADH2
CoOH X Cytob
FeJ

Cytoc
Fe
2.

Succi~
El ectron transpon chain. [Note: Coplex V not shown).

2. Components of the respiratory chain : Al l membe r s of the


respiratory chain are protein except coenzyme 0 . All are embedded
i n the inn er mitochondrial membrane .
a) Complex 1: Contains an enzyme ca ll ed NADH dehydrogenase
(I) Its coenzyme is FMN .
( II ) It contains several iro n an d sul fu r atoms .
(Ii i ) It oxidizes NADH+H • into NAD . At the same time conv erts
it s coenzyme FMN into FMNH 2 •
Oraby's illustrated review of biochemistry 10

b) Complex II: Contains an enzyme called: flavoprotein


dehydrogenase e.g. succinate dehydrogenase of TCA and acyl
CoA dehydrogenase of fatty acid oxidation.
(i) Its coenzyme is FAD.
(il) It contains iron and sulfur atoms.
c) Complex Ill: contains cytochrome b enzyme and cytochrome c,.
d) Complex IV: contains cytochromes a + a3 (=cytochrome c
oxidase).

Fatty acyl CoA


Fatty acids end ketone bodi•s O!ddatiO!!

Electron transport _chain illustrating components and site-specific inhibitors.

3. Coenzyme Q:
a) It is quinine derivative with a long Isoprenoid tall. It is a
relatively mobile electron carrier.
b) Coenzyme Q can accept hydrogen atoms both from FMNH 2 ,
produced by NADH dehydrogenase (complex I) and from FADH 2 ,
which is produced by succinate dehydrogenase and other similar
enzymes (complex II).
4. Cytochromes:.
a) There are 5 types of cytochromes; cyto b, cyto c 1 , cyto c, cyto a
and cyto a3.
b) All cytochromes are conjugated proteins formed of protein
conjugated with heme ring. The heme ring contains iron (Fe).
This iron oscillates between ferric ions (Fe 3•) when it loses an
electron, and ferrous (Fe 2 •) when it accepts electrons.
c) Cytochrome b is associated with sulfur (S) In addition to iron
(Fe).
Bioenergetics and biologic oxidation 11

d) Cytochrome c: Is a relatively mobile carrier. It receives


electrons from complex Ill (cyto b and cyto c,) and transfer them
to cytochrome c oxidase (cyto a and cyto a3 ).
e) Cytochrome c oxidase (a and a3 ): It Is a complex that contains
two heme, cytochrome a, cytochrome a3 , Iron and copper. It Is
the last enzyme In the respiratory chain. It Is the only electron
carrier that can react directly with molecular oxygen. It receives
electrons from cyto c and transfer them to one oxygen molecule.

C. Reactions of respiratory chain:


1. Entry via NADH + H•: NADH + H• obtained from reactions
catalyzed by dehydrogenase enzymes e.g. dehydrogenase of TCA
can join the chain giving electrons to FMN of complex I to
coenzyme a to cytochrome b, cytochrome c to cytochrome a + a3
to the final acceptor 0 2 •
2. Entry via FADH 2 : FADH 2 obtained from reactions catalyzed by
flavoprotein dehydrogenase e.g. succinate' dehydrogenase can join
the chain directly giving electrons to coenzyme a, then to
cytochrome b, c, a + a3 to the final acceptor oxygen.

D. Inhibitors of respiratory chain:


Are compounds preventing the passage of electrons by binding to a
component of the chain, blocking the oxidation - reduction reaction.
1. There are specific sites for binding inhibitors.
a) Site 1: binding with complex I, preventing passage of electrons
from FMN to coenzyme a.
(I) Example of Inhibitors: Barbiturates, •plerlcldln A"
antibiotic and by the Insecticide and fish polson•rotenone".
b) Site II: binding with complex Ill, preventing passage of
electrons from cytochrome b to cytochrome c.
(I) Example: Antimycin A and dimercaprol.
c) Site Ill: binding with complex IV, preventing passage of
electrons from cytochrome a + aa to Oz.
(I) Example of Inhibitors: HzS, cyanide (CN'), carbon
monoxide and sodium azide.

Site of respiratory chain Inhibitors.


Oraby's illustrated review of biochemistry 12

2. Because electron transport and oxidative phosphorylation are


tightly coupled, inhibition of the respiratory chain also inhibits ATP
synthase.

E. Release of free energy during electron transport:


1. Free energy is released as electrons are transferred along the
electron transport chain from electron donor (reducing agent or
reductant) to an electron acceptor (oxidizing agent or oxidant).
2. The electrons can be transferred in different forms, for example:
u) As hydride ion (H) to NAD•.
b) As hydrogen atoms (H) to FAD.
c) As electrons (e) to cytochromes.
3. Redox pairs (NAD• I NADH+H•), (FAD I FADH 2 ) differ in their
tendency to lose electrons. Each redox pair has a characteristic
tendency (Eo) and it is constant to that pair. Its units are measured
in volts. Eo is called standard reduction potential.
4. E., (standard reduction potential): The standard reduction
potentials of various redox pairs can be listed to range from the
most negaiive Eo to the most positive one.
a) The more negative E., of a redox pair, the greater the tendency

of that pair to lose electrons.


b) The more positive E,, the greater the tendency of that pair to

accept electrons.
c) Therefore, electrons flow from the pair with the more negative E.,
to that with the more positive Eo.
5. At three sites (see the figure), the free energy released per
electron pair transferred is sufficient to support the phosphorylation
of ADP to ATP, which required about 7 Kcal/mol.
Substrate Substrate

~ ~
NAD ~ Flavoprotein 7 a ~ Cyt b ~ c1 ~ c ~a --;--+ a3 ~ 112 02
:. ·. . .... ···.. . .... ···.
ADP Pi ADP Pi ADP Pi
......· ......· ......·
ATP ATP
6. Electrons that enter the respiratory chain through the NAD-a
reductase complex support the synthesis of 3 mol of ATP. By
contrast, electrons join the chain directly at the level of
coenzyme a (as in case of FADH 2 of succinate
Bioenergetics and biologic oxidation 13

dehydrogenase) will only support the synthesis of 2 mol of


ATP.
Oxidation-reduction potentials and free-energy changes at sites In the
electron transport c h a I n t h a t can suppor t A TP f or rna tl on:
Site Oxidation- Free energy
reduction potential released
E• (volts) jKcal/mol)
AtNAD -Q 0.27 12.2
At cytochrome b -+cytochrome 0.22 09.9
c,
At cytochrome a3 -+ 02 0.53 23.8

7. P/0 ratio: It is the ratio between numbers Of ADP mol


changed into ATP to the number of oxygen atom (1/2 0 2 )
utilized by respiratory chain. It is 3:1 if electrons enter
through NAD-coenzyme Q and it is 2:1 if electrons join the
chain directly at the level of coenzyme Q.

d) Oxidative phosphorylation:
A. Introduction:
1. Electrons are transferred down the respiratory chain from NADH•
to oxygen. This Is because NADH+ is a strong electron donor, while
oxygen Is a strong electron acceptor.
2. The flow of electrons from NADH• to oxygen (oxidation) results in
ATP synthesis by phosphorylation of ADP by inorganic phosphate,
Pi (phosphorylation). Therefore, there is a coupling between
oxidation and phosphorylation. Two theories explain the ATP
synthesis, chemlosmotlc hypothesis and membrane transport
system.

B. Chemiosmotic hypothesis:
Also called Mitchell hypothesis. This hypothesis is one form of
oxidative phosphorylation. It can be summarized as follows:
1. Proton pump:
a. The transport of electrons down the respiratory chain -+ Gives
energy.
b. This energy is used to transport H+ from the mitochondrial
matrix -+ from Inside to outside the membrane.
c. This Is done by complexes I, Ill and IV.
d. This process creates across the inner mitochondrial membrane:
I. An electrical gradient: (with more positive charges on
the outside of the membrane than on the Inside).
Oraby 's illustra t ed revi ew of biochemistry 14

ii. A pH gradient: ( the o u t side o f the m em brane is at low e r


pH than the i ns ide ).
e. Th e e n e rg y ge n e r a te d by thi s proto n g ra di e nt is suffici e nt for
ATP s ynth es i s .

Mi!(:ll'tltMMJt&.ll
'"r\j, (t."'UJJM~u'
m("ml'\tilllft

+tw)

Pnnoples ol 1hc ChO<nlosmollc lhOOIY ol oxld&IIVO phosphoryiaiiOn Tho m.tln f>!Oion ctrcu~ IS crc.11od by
the couplong ol o~ltktllon trllhe rrsprrntory cllatn 10 pro1on transkx:.1t>~n I rom lho '""'do 10 lhe 001Slde of the membrane.
dnvPn by lhe rcsptrolory cho•n compk!xes I. Ill. and tV, each of whtelo Rei~ .1a n proton pump 0, ubtqumono; C. t;y·
tochromc c F. Fo- pr0111011 subunrls whteh u~llze energy from lhc proton lllildiCOI to promolo phosphorylalion Uncou·
piing agents such 1\8 d•Mrophcnol allow leakage ol H· across lho mr'ITibrann ll>us collapslfi<J 1he electrochemical protun
gradlcnl Olroornyon 'p4'(;ti1Clllly blucks conduclion ol H' lhrough Fu

2. ATP synthase (complex V):


In the inn er mitoch on drial membrane , there is a phosphorylati ng
enzyme complex : ATP synthase (or comple x V) .
a) It i s formed of 2 subunits :
(i) F 1 subunit which protrudes into the matrix.
(ii) F 0 subunit which is present in the membrane .
b) The protons out side the inner mitochondrial membrane can re-
enter th e mitochondrial matri x by pa ssing through channel (F 0 - F,
comple x) to pass by A TP synthase enzyme which is present In F,
subunit . This results In the synthesis of ATP from ADP + Pl. At
the same time decrease the pH and electrical gradients.
3. Evidences support chemiosmotlc theory :
a) Addition of protons (acid) to the external medium of intact
mitochondria leads to the generation of ATP .
b) ATP synthesis does not occur in soluble cytosol system where
there is no ATP synthase. A closed membrane as mitochondria
must b e present in order to obtain oxidative phosphorylation .
Bioenergetics and biologic oxidation 15
----------------------------------
c) The component of respiratory chain is organized in a sided
manner as required by chemiosmotic theory.

----
lntermembrane
space

Electron transport chain shown coupled to transport of protons. 1Noto: Ccmplox nnot shown J

4. Uncouplers:
These are substances that allow oxidation· to proceed but prevent
phosphorylation. So energy released by electron transport will be
lost in the form of heat. This explains the cause of hotness after
intake of these substances. Examples:
a) Oligomycin: This drug binds to the stalk of the ATP synthase ,
closes the H• channel, and prevent re-entry of protons to the
mitochondrial matrix.
b) 2,4 Dinitrophenol: It increases the permeability of the inner
mitochondrial membrane to proton causing decrease proton
gradient.
c) Calcium and high doses of aspirin: this explains the fever that
accompanies toxic overdoses of these drugs.
d) lonophorea: e.g. antibiotics •valinomycin• and Nigerlcln. They
are lipophilic substances. They have the ability to make a
complex with cations as potassium ·K•• and facilitate their
transport Into mitochondria and other biological membranes.
They Inhibit phosphorylation because they decrease both
electrical and pH gradient.
c. Membrane transport systems:
The Inner mitochondrial membrane Is Impermeable to most charged or
hydrophilic substances. However It contains numerous transport
proteins (carrier) that permit passage of specific molecules from the
Oraby's illustrated review of biochemistry 16

cytosol to the mitochondrial matrix e.g. ADP - ATP carrier which


carriers ADP from cytosol into mitochondria, while carrying ATP from
the matrix back to cytosol.

v. Oxidation of extramitochondrial NADH +H+ :


It is mediated by substrate shuttles (glycerophosphate shuttle and
malate-aspartate shuttle).
• The 2 molecules of cytosolic NADH+H+ produced by glycolysis
cannot penetrate mitochondrial membrane, however, they can be
used to produce energy (4 or 6 ATP) by respiratory chain
phosphorylation in the mitochondria.
• This can be done by using special carriers for hydrogen of
NADH+H•. These carriers are either dihydroxyaeetone phosphate
(glycerophosphate shuttle) or oxaloacetate (aspartate - malate
shuttle).
A. Glycerophosphate shuttle:
I) It is important in certain muscles and' nerve cells.
2) The final energy produced is 2 x 2 ATP _,. 4 ATP.

3) Mechanism (see the diagram):


)>The coenzyme of cytosolic glycerol -3- phosphate
dehydrogenase is NAD+.
)>The coenzyme of mitochodrial glycerol-3-phosphatc
dehydrogenase is FAD.
~Oxidation of FADH:~ in respiratory chain gives 2 ATP.
As glycolysis gives 2 cytosolic NADH + H• --+ 2

mitochondrial FADHa --+ 2 x 2 ATP = 4 ATP.


B. Malate - aspartate shuttle:
I) It is important in other tissues particularly liver and heart.
2) The final energy produced is 2x3 ATP _,. 6 ATP.

3) Mechanism: sec diagram


)> The coenzyme of both cytosolic and mitochondrial malate
dehydrogenase is NAD+.
)> Oxidation of NADH+H• in respiratory chain gives 3 ATP.
As glycolysis gives 2 cytosolic NADH+H• --+ 2 mitnchondrial
NADH+H• · > 2x 3 ATP = 6 ATP.
Bioenergetics and biologic oxidation 17

> Note: Mitochondrial


membrane is
IGLYCEROPHOSPHATE SHUTTLE I
impermeable to
9H20H
oxaloacetate. HO-C-H
I

Therefore, C~OP~
Glycerol
oxaloacetate 3·phoaphate
produced inside the
mitochondrial
Elecflolt.ftnapon ciYin ~2 ATP
cannot

cytosol again except


be
transported to · · the
c;:~oH
C FADHz
\.
FAD
L ctH 2oH
9"0 (,.. ·-······-··· -······- ............... HO·C-H
by a special pathway
CloLQ
·~ p 3
0 "'''""-"*' ~up/f4r.:
tJ./1~ . C~OP03
I

DHAP Glycerol
called: 3-phosphate
transamination (see
protein metabolism). INNER MZTCJt:HONIJ(lrAL MEMBRANE

VI.Mitochondrlal structure: IMALATE. ASPARTATE SHUTTLE I


A. The outer mitochondrial
Oxaloacetate +---"'V""---+ Glutamate
membrane: is permeable to
most small molecules. "!~~
B. The Inter-membrane NAD+ ~~I -~"----
space: shows no barrier to Malate
the substances entering or «*Ketoglutarate Asparate

leaving the mitochondrial


fl•Ketogtutarate Asparate
matrix.
C. The inner membrane: Malate
1. The Inner mitochondrial
NAD+ ~ ltfllrldr#ndiNJ I
/Jfll~n AmlnOCRnaftratt
membrane Is ~Mu fTit~m.lmlno~tlont
NADH
impermeable to most +H+

small Ions Including H•· I oxalo;cetate---~--- Glutamate


Na• and K•, small and ~ E/ec:IIOn•trllnaponctwp ~ 3 ATP
·INNER MITOOIONIJIUAL MEMIIRANE
large molecules as ATP,
ADP, pyruvate and other
metabolites important to Sh~~~~ qathwavs fqt.tran:SJ)ort of
mitochondrial function.
~h~ctron~· ac.ross Inner mitochondrial
membra·ne.
. . .
· Rl .. _,L
VJUUtg-
Specialized carriers or
10
transport systems are required move ions or molecules across
this membrane.
Oraby's il/ustratod roview of biochemistry 18

2 The inner mitochondrial membrane is highly convoluted. The


convolutions are called cristae and serve to increase greatly the
surface area of the membrane.
3. ATP synthase complexes: These complexes of proteins are
considered as Inner membrane particles and are attached to the
Inner surface of the Inner mitochondrial membrane. They include
the enzymes of respiratory (electron transport) chain.
IJ. Matrix of mitochondrion: It is a solution like a gel. It is bounded
by the Inner mitochondrial membrane and contains:
1. The enzymes of tricarboxylic acid cycle (TCA) with exception of
succinate dehydrogenase, which is embedded In the inner
membrane.
2. The enzymes of B-oxidation of fatty acids.
3. Miscellaneous enzyme systems.
Cuter Crista
mombrane

\·--
\( \

\ \
ln!ermcmbrane
Inner OUter
Membrane I 114ft
Mombrane

VII) Mitochondrial functions:


The following reactions occur in the mitochondria:
A. Carbohydrate metabolism:
1. Oxidative decarboxylation of pyruvate and a ketoglutarate.
2 Tricarboxylic acid cycle.
3. Part of gluconeogenesis.
B. Respiratory chain.
1 Oxidative phosphorylation.
2 Most of ATP formation in the cells (cell battery). )
C. Lipids metabolism:
1. P-Oxidatlon of Fatty acids.
2. Mitochondrial synthesis of fatty acids.
3. Ketogenesis.
D. Protpln metabolism:
1. Transamination.
2. Part of heme synthesis.
3 Part of urea synthesis
Chapter 2 Car6oliyarate !M.eta6o{ism

{})igestion
I. Introduction: More than 6o96 of our foods are carbohydrates.
A. Starch, glycogen, sucrose, lactose and
cellulose are the chief carbohydrates in
our food.
B. Before intestinal absorption, they are
hydrolyzed to monosaccharides (glucose,
galactose and fructose).
C. A family of glycosidases that hydrolyzes
carbohydrate into their monosaccharide Hydrolysis of a glycosidic bond.
components catalyzes hydrolysis of glycosidic bonds.

11. Digestion of carbohydrate by salivary a -amylase


(ptylin) in the mouth:
A. This enzyme is produced by salivary glands. Its optimum pH is
6.,.
B. It is activated by chloride ions {CI-).
C. It acts on cooked starch and glycogen breaking a 1-4 bonds,
converting them into maltose [a disaccharide containing two
glucose molecules attached by a 1-4 linkage]. The bond of maltose
is not attacked by a- amylase.
D. Because both starch and glycogen also contain a. 1-6 bonds, the
resulting digest contains isomaltose [a disaccharide in which two
glucose molecules are attached by a 1-6 linkage].
E. Because food remains for a short time in the mouth, digestion
of starch and glycogen may be incomplete and gives a partial
digestion products called: starch dextrins (amylodextrin,
erythrodextrin and achrodextrin).

19-
Oraby's Illustra ted reviews of biochomistry 20

F. Therefore, digestion of starch and


glycoge n in the mouth gives
maltose, isomaltose and s tarch
dextrin s .

Ilt.In the slontaclt: carbohydrate Low pH


stops action
of salivary
digestion sto ps temporarily due to amylase

the high acidity, which inactivates


the sa livary o.-a m ylase.

rv .Digestion of carlJohydrale
to
!:y panc1·eat·ic a- amylase UVER

in the small intestine:


A. o.-amylase enzyme is produced by
J,.•
clrcula lon :
I
Mucosal cell
membrane - bound
pan c reas and acts in small enzymes
_..L (isomaltaso
""'--glucoamylase
in testine. Its optimum p ll is 7.1. lactase
sucrase)
B. It ts a lso activated hy chloride
ion ·
C. It .t•·ts on cooked an d uncook1 ·1
s tarch, hydrolyzing them into Digestion of carbohydrates.
mal tose a nd isomalt ose.

v . Final ca1• b o hy d1·u Le digest ion by intestinal


enzyntes:
A. The final digestive processes occur at •he ., nall ·" .cst ine an
include the action of several disaccharidns(•s. These <..!'zymes ar
secreted through nnd remain associated wilh the brush border ~ f
t he int estinal mucosa l cells.
B. The disaccharidases include:
1- Lactase (p-galactosidase) wh ich hydrolyses lactose into two
molecules of glucose and galactose:
Lactose Lactase ) Glucose + Galactose
2- Malta se (a-glucos idase), which hydrolyses maltose into two
molecules of glucose:
IMaltose Maltase Glucose + Glucose
3- Sucrase (a-fructofuranosidase), which h ydrolyses suca·osc
into two molecules of glucose and fruct ose:

Sucrose Sucrase Glucose + Fructose


Carbohydrate metabolism 21

4. a-dextrinasc which hydrolyzes the (1,6) linkage of


isomaltose.
ijsomaltose Dcxtrlnase ,. Glucose + Glucoscl

VI.Digestion of cellulose:
A. Cellulose contains 1}(1-4) bonds between glucose molecules.
B. In humans, there is no p (1-4) glucosidase that can digest such
bonds. So cellulose passes as such in stool.
C. Cellulose helps water retention during the passage of food along the
intestine -+ producing larger and softer feces -+ preventing
constipation.

}1.6sorption
1. Introduction:
A. The end products of carbohydrate digestion are monosaccharides:
glucose, galactose and fructose. They are absorbed from the jejunum
to portal veins to the liver, where fructose and galactose arc
transformed into glucose.
B. Two mechanisms are responsible for absorption of
monosaccharides: active transport (against concentration
gradient i.e. from low to high concentration) and passive
transport (by facilitated diffusion).
C. For active transport to take place, the structure of sugar should
have:
I. Hexose ring.
2. OH group at position 2 at the right side. Both of which c
are present in glucose and galactose. Fructose, which {~
does not contain -OH group to the right at position 2 is
c 0
1 J
absorbed more slowly than glucose and galactose by
I
tt,l
passive diffusion (slow process). c
L...-----J

3. A methyl or a substituted methyl group should be present


at carbon 5·

11. Mechanisms of absorption:


A. Active transport;
1. Mechanism of active transport:
a) In the cell membrane of the intestinal cells, there is a mobile
carrier protein called sodium - dependant glucose
Oraby's illustrated reviews of biochemistry 22
----------------------------------
transporter (SGLT-t). It transports ghwusc to insidt.• the
cell using energy. The energy is derived from sodium-
po.Lassium pump. The transporter has 2 separate sites, one for
sodium and the other for glucose. It transports them from the
intestinal lumen across cell membrane to the cytosol. Then
both glucose and sodium arc released into the cytosol
allowing the carrier to return for more transport of glucose
and sodium.
b) The sodium is transported from high to low concentration
(with concentration gradient) and at the same time causes the
carrier to transport glucose against its concentration
gradient. The Na• is expelled outside the cell by sodium -
potassium pump, which needs ATP as a source of energy.
The reaction is catalyzed by an enzyme called "Adenosine
triphosphatase (ATPase)". Active transport is much more
faster than passive transport.
c) Insulin increases the number of glucose transporters in
·tissues containing insulin receptors e.g. muscles and
adipose tissue.

Inhibited by
ouabln 1+---~
(cardlao
glycoside)

To capillaries ~

Transport the glucose across the Intestinal oplthellum. Activo glucose transport
Is coupled to the Nl • K• pump.

2. Inhibitors of active transport :


a) Ouabin (cardiac glycoside): Inhibits adenosine
triphosphatas<~ (ATPase) necessary for hydrolysis of ATP

that prodn('es energy of sndium-potassium pump.


Carbolwdrate metabolism 23

b) Phlorhizin: Inhibits the binding of sodium in the carrier


protein.

B. Passive transport (facilitated


diffusion):
Sugars pass with concentration gradient i.e.
from high to low concentration. It needs no
energy. It occurs by means of sodium -
independent facilitative transporter (GLUT- ~ .J Glucose
transporter
(atatct 2)
s). Fructose and pcntoses are absorbed by !'O'Iit'll.lf:'lfr'r'fl
.ill~~ll.~\!.!.1.1,!
this mechanism. Glucose and galactose can
also usc the same transporter if the
concentration gradient is favorable. •
Schematic representation of facilitated
C. There is also sodium - independent transport of glucose through cell
membrane. GLUT= glucose
transporter (GLUT-2), that facilitates transporter.

transport of sugars out of the cell i.e. to


circulation.

Summary of types and functions of most



1mpor I
t an t glucose t ranspor t ers:
Function Site
SGLT-1 Absorption of glucose Intestine and renal
by active transport tubules
(energy is derived from
Na•-K•_p_um_p_.
GLUT-s Fructose transport . Intestine and sperm
and to a lesser
extent glucose and
galactose.
GLUT-:z Transport glucose out -Intestine and renal
of intestinal and renal tubules
cells --. circulation. -8 cells of islets-liver

111. Defects of carbohydrate digestion and absorption:


A. Lactase deficiency = lactose intolerance:
1. Definition:
a) This is a deficiency of lactase enzyme which digests lactose
into glucose and galactose
b) It may be:
(i) Congenital: This occurs very soon after birth (rare).
(ii) Acquired: This occurs Inter on, in life (common).
Oraby's illustrated reviews of biochemistry 24

2. Effect: Th e presence of lacto se in inte st i n e causes :


a) Increa sed osmot ic pressu r e : So water will be drawn from
the t issue (caus in g dehydrat ion) i n to th e large i ntes tine
(causing dian·hen) .
b) Increased ferme nt ation of
lacto s e by ba cter ia: Intest i na l
bacteria ferment lactose w ith
subsequent producti on of C02 gas.
This causes distenti on and abdo minal
cramps. $ WALl IH11lS1'1NC

3. Treat ment: Tr ea tm en t of t his d isorder Lactoao

is s impl y by removing lactose (m il k)


from di e t.
t
G&IOCIOI8
+
Gluc ose

B. Sucrase deficiency: LAROE INTESTINE

It is a rare conditi o n, show ing a s imilar Lactoao

signs a n d sy m ptoms as lactase deficiency. ,l


llACT£ fUA

1~
It occurs ea rly in c hildh ood .

C. Monosaccharides malabsorption:
This is a congenital co ndition in which
g lu cose and galac t ose are absorb ed only
s lowly due to defect tn the GLUT-1.
,. . .,...._COJvL f H20
..._ V'

Beca use fru ct ose is not abso rbed by the DIARRHEA


DEHYDRATION
G LUT-1, its absorption is no rmal.
Normal (A) and abnormal (B) lactose
metabolism.
IV . Fate of absorbed sugars:
Mo n osacc hari des (g lucose, galactose and fruc tose) res ul t in g from
carbo h ydrate digest ion are absorbed and undergo the fo ll ow ing :
A. Uptake by liver:
After absorption the liver takes up s ugars, where galactose and fructose
arc converted into glucose.

IJ. Glucose utilization by tissues : Glucose may und ergo one of


th e fo ll ow in g fat e:
1. Oxidation: throug h
a) Major pathways (glyco lysis and Krebs' cycle) mainly for
production of ene rgy.
b) Pcntos c phosphate pathway: for product ion of pento.ses
and NADPH + H+.
Carbohydrate metabolism 25

c) Uronic acid pathway: for production of glucuronic acid.


This sugar derivative is used in detoxication and enters in the
structure of glycosaminoglycans.
2. Storage in the form of:
a) Glycogen: glycogenesis.
b) Fat: lipogenesis.
3. Conversion: to substances of biological importance:
a) Ribose , deoxyribose _. RNA and DNA.
b) Lactose _. milk.
c) Glucosamine and galactosamine _. mucopolysaccharide&.
d) Glucuronic acid _. glycosaminoglycans and mucopolysaccharide&.
e) Fructose _. in semen.

q£VCOSt£ OXJ(])}lrz10!N
9dajorlPatliway

-
c -i
c

I1 s
0

li!
~
IJC
0

t
!
t 40BnL OoA
1J!
l
V-4--...-t-+Ooatraotlq
.1"'11. IIIUIOlel

t.
0
1(!)

1. Glycolysis (Embden Meyerhof Pathway):


A. Definition:
1. Glycolysis means oxidation of glucose to give pyruvate (in the
presence of oxygen) or lactate (in the absence of oxygen).
B. SiR:
1. Intracellular location: cytosol.
2. Organ location: all tissue cells, but it is of physiological
importance in:
Oraby's Illustrated reviews of biochemistry 26

a) Tissues with no mitochondria: e.g. mature RBCs.


b) Tissues wlth few mitochondria: e.g. Testes and leucocytes.
c) Tissues undergo frequent oxygen lack: skeletal muscles
especially during exercise.
C. Steps:
u -cI =o H -9 =·0 H2 -9-0H
H ~.cI ..ou Hexokinase H ·9·0H Phosphohexosc C::~O
HO•CI ·H Glucokinas& flO.'( ~H ~- isomcrasc )" HO-~ ..8
H ·C·OH -~~ H. •C-OH
I
H -c-QH
T
H -9-ou ATP ADP K -~·OH ~ ~ OH H •C""OH 0 OH
CH •0H I II ~
2 CK2·0-P •OH CHz•O· ·P- OH
Glucose Glucose-6-phosphate Fructose-6-phosphate

P., OH
u~-c;·o- P ·-ou
C=O
I
liO·CI ·H
H .;C•Oil
I
H -1'!-0H 0 OH
T -o- \'-
CH ""' OH
2
Fructose 1,6 blsphosphate

(ALdolase)

H2·rt-OB
.~=0 ~ .... OH
u2 -t. ·D- :.p -.oa
Dlhydroxyacetone phosphate

Phosphtriosc
isomerase
.1

.
0 aO
·I' H· 9 =0
H ·C-Olt
I
0 OH
ii ... ~ -c-ou
I
o
U.t'
ou
~2-0··P -O.H CH2•0·P ·OH
Glyceraldehyde -3- phosphate Glyceraldehyde -3- phosphat~
Carbohydrate metabolism 27

*u -c .. o COOH
I I
~ H -C -OH HO-C - H
I p, .... OH I
CH 2-o- P ·OH CH 3
Glyceraldehyde -3- phosphate Lactate
J

Lactate I
dchydrogcnosc]

r
~ p, .... 011
COO,., P -OH COOH
I I
(~: H -C ·OH
I ~ .... OH ~ c ..
I
0
CH 2 -o- P -OH CH 3
1, 3 Blsphosphoglycerate Pyruvate

Spontanous

COOH
I
COOH C - OH
I n
H -C -OH CH 2
I P,.,... OH
CH 2 -0- P -OH Enol pyruvate
3 Phosphoglycerate

I
COOH I
,'
I COOH
*H -c-o- 0......
P -on
OH { [Enolase)
(.;\ I P,.,... OH
~ \ ,..,g• (.;\ ~ • ~ C ·ON P ·OH
I
CH • *OH •
2 '" ~HOH CH 2
I
Cytosol 2 Phosphoglycerate f Phosphenolpyruvate
;
u \) v
MltochondriG
!
Respiratory ehGin J
4 ATP or 6 ATP
Oraby's illustrated reviews of biochemistry 28

Stages of glycolysis:
1. Stage one (the energy requiring stage):
a) One molecule of glucose is converted into two molecules of
glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate.
b) These steps requires 2 molecules of ATP (energy loss)
2. Stage two ( the energy producing stage):
a) The 2 molecules of glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate are
converted into 2 pyruvate molecules (aerobic glycolysis) or
2 lactate molecules (anaerobic glycolysis).
b) These steps produce ATP molecules (energy production).

(Anaerobic glycolysis) (Aerobic glycolysis l

1=[::1
F-6-p

F 1.6 biajlll.

@~P
!
~ 2HAD+-E'-,

~~2 NADHjtli+!:
® 1.3 lllsjlh. ~ l
[..-- 2AOP :

~!2ATP~~
@3~
~
®2·~
~
Q) Phosphoonol fii'IINUle
I,
aADP
~!2ATP!
®Pyruvate

v v
!
4 or 6 ATP
Energy production of
glycolysis
Carbohydrate metabolism 29

D. Energy (ATPl production of glycolysis:


ATP production = ATP produced- ATP utilized

ATP produced ATI, utilized Net


energy
In absence 4ATP 2ATP
of oxygen (Substrate level 2ATP
(anaerobic phosphorylation) • From glucose to
glycolysis) • 2ATP from 1,3 glucose-6-p.
BPG.
• 2ATP from • From fructose-6-
phosphoenol p to fructose 1,6
pyruvate bisp.

In 4ATP 2ATP
presence (Substrate level
of oxygen phosphorylation) • From glucose to 6ATP
(aerobic • 2ATP from 1,3 glucose-6-p.
glycolysis) BPG. or
• 2ATP from • From fructosc-6-
phosphocnol p to fructose t ,6
pyruvate bisphosphatc. 8ATP
+
4 ATP or 6 ATP
•(From oxidation
of 2 NADH + H
in mitochondria).

E. Oxidation of extramitochondrial NADH+H+:


1. The 2 molecules of cytosolic NADH+H+ cannot penetrate
mitochondrial membrane, however, they can be used to produce
energy (4 or 6 ATP) by respiratory chain phosphorylation in the
mitochondria (sec chapter I).

F. Biological importance (functions) of glycolysis:


1. Energy production :
a) Anaerobic glycolysis gives 2 ATP.
b) Aerobic glycolysis gives 8 ATP.
2. Oxygenation of tissues:
Through formation of 2,3 bisphosphoglyccrate, which decreases
the affinity of Hemoglobin to 02.
3. Provides important intermediates:
a) Dihydroxyacetone phosphate: may give glycerol-3-phosphatc,
which is used for syntlacsis of triaeylglycerols and
phosplaolipids (lipogenesis).
b) 3 Phosphoglycerate: which may be us'ed for syntlaesis of
amino acid serine.
c) Pyruvate: which may be used in synthesis of amino acid
alanine.
Oraby's illustrated reviews of biochemistry 30

4. Aerobic glycolysis provides the mitochondria with pyruvate,


which gives acetyl CoA ~ Krebs' cycle.
Glucose

Glyceraldehyde- 3 p
J. Dlhydroxy acetone + epogennls
J phosphate

1,3 B!aphosphoglycerete

'
'
3 Phosphoglycerate
~~
'/'
2,3BPO

1
Pyruvate

I
Pyruvate

I
Actyl CoA

".. '
-1
I Krebs'\
IFunctions of glycolysis J
\cycle}
'·-"" ~

G. Regulation of glycolysis:
The rate of glycolysis is regulated by controlling of the three
irreversible enzymes (key enzymes). These enzymes catalyze what is
called committed reactions of the pathway. These enzymes nrc;
glucokinase (hexokinase), phosphofructokinase-! nnd pyruvate
kinase.
1. Hormonal rcKulntion;
a) Insulin: Stimulates synthesis of all key enzymes of
glycolysis. It is secreted after meal (in response to high blood
glucose level).
b) Glucagon: Inltibits the activity of all key enzymes of
glycolysis. It is secreted in response to low blood glucose
level.
1. Energy regulation:
a) High level of AT11 inhibits PFK-1 and pyruvate kinase.
b) High level of ADP nnd AMP stimulate PFK-1.
carbohydrate metabolism 31

3. Substrate regulation:
a) Glucose-6-phosphate inhibits hexokinase (and not
glucokinase).
b) Fructose 2,6 bisphosphate stimulates phosphofructokinnse-1.
c) Citrate inhibits phosphofr~ctokinase-1.
d) Fructose 1,6 bisphospbate stimulates pyruvate kinase.
4. Fructose z,6 bispbosphate:
a) This substrate is produced from fructose-6-pbosphate by
reaction catalyzed by: phosphofructokinase-2 (PFK-2)
enzyme.
b) Fructose 2,6 bisphosphate stimulates glycolysis by allosteric
stimulation of phosphofructokinase-1. It also inhibits
gluconeogenesis by inhibiting fructose 1,6 bisphosphatase
enzyme.
Glucose
n
Insulin - - - - - - . ® Glucokinase
Glucagon 9
===
Hexokinase 9 ~.-- Glucose-6-p

n
..-----. 9 ~
Insulin ___.....,_____..,_.., ® Phospho· 9
ATP
Citrate
Glucagon 9 fructoklnase-1 ®• AMP
®..,......._Fructose 2,6
· bisphosphale

Insulin _ _ ••._. ... ..._. ® Pyruvate 9+--ATP


Glucagon 9 kinase ®• Fructose 1,6
bisphosphate

n
Pyruvate

c:) PFK-2 (present mainly in liver) bas bi-functional role:


1) Conversion of fructose·6-phospbate into fructose
2,6 bisphospbate. This reaction is stimulated after
meal by fructose-6-phosphate and insulin.
2) Conversion of fructose 2,6 blspbosphate into
fructose-6-phosphate (exactly as phosphatase). This
reaction is stimulated during fasting by glucagon
hormone.
Oraby's Illustrated reviews of biochemistry 32

,
!' /
{JI ,'
I. /;"/
$2 I
F-6-P

XC: B:rATP
i.I~ADP()

\ ~
(+) ¢l1Fructose 2,6 blsphosphatal c::) (·)

PI ~
Fructose1,6 blsphosphata

H. Differences between aerobic and anaerobic


glycolysis:
Aerobic Anaerobic
t·End product Pyruvate Lactate
2-Energy 6 or 8 ATP 2ATP
3-Regeneratlon Through respiratory Through lactate
ofNAD+ chain in mitochondria formation
4·Availabllity Available and 2 Not available as
to TCA in pyruvate can be lactate is
mitochondria oxidized to give 30 ATP a cytosolic substrate

I. Substrate level phosphorylation in glycolysis:


This means phosphorylation of ADP to ATP at the reaction itself.
In glycolysis there are 2 examples:
• 1,3 Bisphosphoglycerate • ADP -. 3 Phosphoglycerate + ATP
• Phospho-enolpyruvate + ADP -. Enolpyruvate + ATP

J. Importance of lactate production in anaerobic


glycolysis:
I. In absence of oxygen, lactate is the end product of glycolysis:
!Glucose -. Pyruvate -. Lactatel
2. In absence of oxygen, NADH+H+ is not oxidized by the
respiratory chain, thus:
The conversion of puruvate to lactate is the mechqnism
for regeneration ofNAD+.
Carbohydrate metabolism 33

3. This helps continuity of glycolysis, as the generated NAD+ will be


used once more for oxidation of another glucose molecule.
Glucose

Pyruvate Lactate ~

K. Special features of glycolysis in RBCs:


I. Mature RBCs contain no mitochondria, thus:
a) They depend Mfx upon glycolysis for energy production (=2
ATP).
b) Lactate is always the end product.
2. Glucose uptake by RBCs is independent on insulin hormone.
3. Reduction of met-hemoglobin: Met-hemoglobin binds oxygen
irreversibly. Glycolysis produces NADH+H+, which used for
reduction of met-hemoglobin in red cells, into hemoglobin. This
reaction is catalyzed by cytochrome b 5 -met-haemoglobin
reductase system (cyt b 5 ):
!Met-Hemoglobin {Fe··•) .,. NAf)H.,.H" '* Hemoglobin (Fe··) .,. NA/)•1
4. 2,3 Bisphosphoglycerate:
a) The RBCs have the ability to form 2,3 bisphosphoglycerate
(2,3 BPG) through what is called: Rapoport-Luebering cycle
or 2,3 bisphosphoglycerate cycle. 2,3 BPG J. affinity of
hemoglobin to 02 + Good oxygenation of tissues.
b) Mechanism:
In the erythrocytes of many mammalian species the reaction
(!"HOSPHOGLYOERATE KINAS~
1,8 Blaphoaphoglycerato + ADP +-::::::========:::::::-+ 8 Phoaphoglycorato + ATP

Is bypassed by other 2 reactions without producing energy


(ATP) as follows:
Oraby's illustrated reviews of biochemistry 34

H-~-0 .----Glucose
H- -OH
H~-o-®
Glyceraldehyde 3-ptlosphlte

Pi~NAo•
GlYCIRALOEHVD£•3-Ptl~
I ·----~DI~H~Y~~D~~~N~~~--~
NAOH+H•

~
H-~=~~® ~BISPH~TE)
CH,-o-®
1,3·Bisphosphoglycerate ·
Al)p ~OOH
""o~~., 1 H-c;:-o-®
cti,-o-®
ATP 2,3-Sisphosphoglyceroto

~
OOH
H- -OH
H~-o-®
3·Phosphoglycerate
L--- -..Pyruvate

L. Mechanism of oxidation of glyceraldhyde·a·phosphate:


I. Glycernldhyde-3-phosphate is oxidized by glyceraldhyde-3-p
dehydrogenase enzyme.
2. This enzyme contains -SH group in its active center:

8 - Bu
- I ILi
H - C .. 0
I
:a~-

c-
I
O•n!
D - C - OU llaz-&H B-C-OB
a.-o-® C~r.-o-®
Glyceraldhydo-3-P

0 CIJ
• I "
s- Biz
~}O- p- I
c"""o-®
I c
CIJ cI 0D

H- C - OR Enz-8H J/ B • C • DB
C:u.-o-® a.-o-® ~
1,3 Blephouphoglycorata ozidlaed Bna-uube. co~ploz

M. Reversibility of glycolysis: Reversible reaction means that the


same enzyme can catalyze the reaction in both directions.
I. All reactions of glycolysis -except 3- are reversible.
Carbohydrate metabolism 35

2. The 3 irreversible reactions (those arc catalyzed by kinase


enzymes) are:
a) Glucose-6-phosphate + Glucose
b) F 1,6 Bisphosphate + Fructose-6-phosphate
c) Pyruvate + Phosphoenol pyruvate.
3. During fasting, glycolysis is reversed for synthesis of glucose
from non-carbohydrate sources as lactate. This mechanism is
called: gluconeogenesis.

N. Comparison between glucokinase and hexokinase enzymes:


Glucokinase Hexokinase
1.Site Liver only All tissue cells
2.Affinity to Low affinity(high km) High affinity (low km)
glucose
i.e. it acts only in the i.e. it acts even in the
presence of presence of
high blood glucose low blood glucose
concentration. concentration.
a.Substrate Glucose only Glucose, galactose and
fructose
4.Effect of Induces synthesis of No effect
insulin glucokinase
s.Effect of No effect Allosterically inhibits
glucose-6- hexokinase
phosphate
6.Function Acts in liver after meals. It phosphorylates glucose
It removes glucose inside the body cells •This
coming in portal makes glucose concentration
circulation, converting it more in
into glucose-6- blood than inside the
phosphate. cells .
This leads to continuous
supply of glucose for the
tissues even in the
presence of low blood
glucose concentration.

o. Lactate dehydrogenase:
1. It is an enzyme which catalyzes the reaction:
Lactate ~ Pyruvate
2. This reaction helps the re-oxidation of NADH, H+ into NAD+.
3. It has 5 isoenzymes: LD" LD2, LD 3 , LD 4 and LD 5 •
4. Medical importance :
Estimation of the activity of lactate dehydrogenase enzyme in
plasma helps the diagnosis of heart and liver diseases:
a) LDa: Elevated in some heart diseases e.g. myocardial
infraction.
b) LD 5 : Elevated in some liver diseases as acute viral
hepatitis.
Oraby's illustrated reviews of biochemistry 36

P. In vitro inhibition of glycolysis:


I. Arsenate: by competing with inorganic phosphate in the
reaction:
IGtyceroldhyde- 3- p --. 1, 3 bisphosphoglycerotel
2. Iodoacetatc: by inhibiting glyceraldhyde-3-p dehydrogenase.
3. Fluoride: Inhibits enolase enzyme. Clinical laboratories use
fluoride to inhibit glycolysis by adding it to the blood before
measuring blood glucose.

Q. Fermentation:
1. Definition: This is conversion of glucose into ethanol by yeast
enzymes.
2. Pyruvate is formed by the same series of reactions of glycolysis.
Then pyruvate is converted into acetaldehyde, then ethanol as
follows:
3. Thus the end product of fermentation is CO:z and ethanol.

(Pyruvate decarboxylase!
al3- CBO I Alcoi!Gilc: J
.d•hy!lrog- CB 3 -CH 2 -0H
M&+ ii
C02 Acetaldehyde (\ • Ethanol
NADH+H+ NAD+

R. Sources and fate of lactate:


I. Sources:
From glycolysis especially in RBCs due to absence of
mitochondria and muscle during exercises due to oxygen lack.
2. Fate:
a) Glucose formation: [through lactic acid cycle (Cori cycle)]:
1) Lactate formed in muscles and RBCs may diffuse to the
blood then to the liver.
2) In the liver, lactate ·is converted to glucose by
gluconeogenesis. Glucose may diffuse back to the blood,
then to red cells or muscles to be used for production of
energy. This cycle is called: Lactic acid cycle or Cori
cycle.

Definition of Cori cycle: It is the conversion of glucose


into lactate in peripheral tissues, followed by conversion of
lactate into glucose in liver.
Carbohydrate metabolism 37

b) Conversion into pyruvate: [f oxygen gets available, lactate


is converted into pyruvate, which proceeds into Krebs cycle.
c) Lactate may be accumulated in muscles causi n g mus cle
fatigue.
d) Lactate is excreted in urine and sw eat.

Liver

Glucose

t
-!-
Pyruvate

Lactate

\II 11f

Cori cycle.

S. Clinical aspects of glycolysis:


There a r e many di seases associated with impair ed g lyco lysis. Th ey
includ e:

1. Pyruvate kinase deficiency.


2. Hexokinase d eficiency.
3. Lactic acidosis.

1. Pyruvate kinase (PK) deficiency:


a) This leads to excessive hemolys is of RBCs + leadi ng to
hemolytic anemia.
b) Genetic defi ciency of PK enzyme ca uses dec re ase in the rate of
glycolysis and decreased production of ATP.
c) ATP is required for Na • -K+ ATPase, which is important for
stability of RBCs .
Oraby's Illustrated reviews of biochemistry 38

2. Hexokinase deficiency:
It leads to hemolytic anemia due to decrease ATP production.
The mechanism is similar to that of PK deficiency.
3. Lactic acidosis:
a) Definition and mechanism of lactic acidosis :
I) It is the lowered blood pH and bicarbonate levels due
to increased blood lactate above normal level.
2) This depletes bicarbonate ,. ,J, pH of blood ,. Lactic
acidosis ,.may lead to coma.
OH OH
I I
CHa·CH·COOH + NaHCOa • CH 1 -CH-COONa + H 2 C0 1 • C0 2 + H 2 0
lactate Sodium bicarbonate Sodium lactate Carbonic acid

b) Causes of lactic acidosis: It results from increased


formation or decreased utilization of lactate.
I) Increased formation of lactate as in severe
muscular exercises.
~Decreased utilization of lactate in tissues: it
occurs in cases of anoxia or lack of oxygen e.g.
myocardial infarction, respiratory disorders, and
anemia.
2) Phenformin: is oral hypoglycemic drug, causing
excessive anaerobic oxidation of glucose and excess
lactate production.
11. Mitochondrial pathway for glucose oxidation:
Complete oxidation of glucose occurs in both cytosol (glycolysis)
and mitochondria (Krebs' cycle). In the presence of 02, pyruvate
(the end product of glycolysis) passes by special pyruvate
transporter into mitochondria which proceeds as follows:
• Oxidative decarboxylation of pyruvate to acetyl CoA.
• Acetyl CoA is then oxidized completely to C02, H20 through
Krebs· cycle.
A. Oxidative decarboxylation of pyruyate to acetyl
coenzyme A ( = acetyl CoA):
I. Enzyme: Pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH) complex:
a) This enzyme complex contains 3 subunits, which catalyzes
the reaction in 4 steps. These subunits are: pyruvate
decarboxylase, dihydrolipoyl transacetylase and
dihydrolipoyl dehydrogenase.
Carbohydrate metabolism 39

b) This enzyme needs 5 coenzymes (all are vitamin B complex


derivatives):
I) Vitamin B, =Thiamin pyrophosphate= TPP.

SH s
2) Lipoic acid • (reduced) ~ , (oxidized) ~I
'-sH '-s
3) Coenzyme A= CoASH.
4) Flavin adenine dinucleotide = FAD.
S) Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide = NAD+.
c) Location: PDH is located within the mitochondrial matrix.

2. Reactions:

Thiamin CoASH
pyrophosphate
TPP Dlhydrol!poyl
transacetylaoe

UPCJic oc:ld UPCJic oc:id


OH (O>Iiclizcd) (Rcdllc:ed) 0
I n
CH3·C· TPP ("S ..,...SH CoA-SrvC· CH 3
Active 'S r;,SH
Acetyl CoA

~
acetaldehyde

FADH FAD
2
l 1
r l
NADH+H+

Summary of oxidative decarboxylation:

0 jPyruvate dehydrogenase! 0
II II
CH - C- COOH CH - C -SCoA
3 3
L,
... sI t
Pyruvate s Acetyl CoA
Co ASH NADH+H+

3. Energy production: + (3 ATP)


Oxidative decarboxylation of pyruvate to acetyl CoA produces
one molecule of NADH,H•. This produces 3 ATP molecules
through respiratory chain phosphorylation.
4. Regulation of oxidative decarboxylation CPDHl:
a) PDH exists in two forms: Phosphorylated (inactive) and
dephosphorylated (active).
Oraby's illustrated reviews of biochemistry 40

b) Pyruvate dehydrogenase
(PDH) kinase enzyme
converts active into
inactive PDH enzyme.
c) PDH Phosphatase
enzyme converts inactive
into active PDH enzyme.
I) Factors
stimulating [ +]
PDH:
>Pyruvate.
>CoASH.
> NAD+. ADP ATP'

> Insulin hormone. Acetyl CoA- Ca•• Pyruvate - NAb+


2) Factors ATP- NADH+H+ CoASH
-~---""'
inhibiting [ •1
PDH:
Regulation of pyruvate dehydrogenase
>NADH,H•.
complex. fY'Udk1
>ATP.
>Acetyl CoA.
>Calcium ions.

Summary of regulation:

_, /
CoASH

5. In vitro inhibition of PDH:


a) Arsenic.
b) Thiamin (8,) deficiency.

B. Krebs' cycle [also known as citric acid cycle (CAC) or


tricarboxylic acid cycle (TCA) or catabolism of acetyl CoA]:
I. Definition: TCA is a series of reactions in which acetyl CoA
is oxidized into C02, H20 and energy.
2. Location: Mitochondria.
Carbohydrate metabolism 41

3. Steps:
0
II
oa 3• 0,., SOoA
#/A Acetyl CoA
0 • 0 - 0008
I ~ IOITRATB SYRTHASBI
082·0008
oxaloacetate

IIALATB NADH+H~
DBBYDROGBRASB
NAD+

80 - OR - OOOR
I
08 2 - OOOB
Malate

-- OR,. - 0008

t -r H20 I r.
IFUMARASE I
., ,.
..... ...... ...... 0II - COOB
''\ OR - COOR
Cls-aconltate
08 - 0008 / Krebs' \
'
BOOO - OR I
\\ cycle
'
' ,.....-..t !ACONITASE l

' ___ ..,.


Fumarate I H20 . Ft+
.... / y82 - oooR
[ SVOODIATB
DBIIYDROGBRASB
l FADH2
FAD
OR
- OOOR
BO - ba - OOOR
lsocltrate

OR2 - OOOB
l
NAD+
~
~ DBH!DROGBRASB
ISOOITRATB
OR2 - OOOR NADH+H

Succinate 082 - 0008


I

CoASH 9R - OOOR
0 • 0 - OOOR
SVOOIRATB Oxalosucclnate
TBIOKIRASB
.J
ISOOITRATB
C02 +-"""'~ DBRYDROOBHASE

082 - COOR OR2 - COOR


I
082
2
0 a b- COOR
Succlnyl CoA
a- Ketoglutarate ~,P
Oraby's illustrated reviews of biochemistry
42

3. Steps:
a) The enzymes of TCA cycle are present in the mitochondrial
matrix either free or attached to the inner surface of the
mitochondrial membrane.
b) The cycle is started by acetyl CoA (2 carbons) and oxaloacetate
(4 carbons) to form citrate (6 carbons). It ends by oxaloacetate
(4 carbons).
The difference between the starting compound (citrate, 6 carbons)
and the ending compound (oxaloacetate, 4 carbons) is 2 carbons
that are removed in the form of 2 C0 2 • These 2 carbons are
derived from acetyl Co A. For this reason acetyl Co A is completely
catabolized in TCA and never gin glucose.

4. Energy production ..,..,....


I
Pyrwoto~
of TCA: (Energy (0-,.-·~l

produced by ....,._
\
catabolism of acetyl
CoA):
a) Oxidation of one
molecule of acetyl
CoA in TCA
produces 12 ATP
molecules, 11 by
respiratory chain
phosphorylation
and 1 by substrate
level
phosphorylation as
follows:
Enzyme Method of ATP production No. of ATP
Isocltrate dehydrogenase Oxidation of NADH+H+
by respiratory chain 3ATP
phosphorvlation
u-Ketoglutarate Oxidation of NADH+H+
dehydrogenase by respiratory chain 3ATP
phosphorylation
Succlnyl CoA thloklnase Substrate level
phosphorylation t ATP
Succinate dehydrogenase Oxidation of FADH by
respiratory chain 2ATP
phosphorvlation
Malate dehydrogenase Oxidation of NADH+H• 3ATP
by respiratory chain
phosphorvlation
Total= 12 ATP
Carbohydrate metabolism 43

b) Energy production of complete oxidation of one


molecule of glucose:
• Glucose oxidation • 36 or 38 ATP.
Pyruvate oxidation -. 15 ATP.
Acetyl CoA .. 12 ATP

Glucose

(Glycolysis] 6 or 8 ATP

Pyruvate Pyruvate

t
--vPyruvate v 1 v-
Pyruvate

13ATP 13 ATP l 36 ATP


or
38 ATP
Acetyl CoA Acetyl CoA 15 ATP
1

12 ATP

12 ATP 12 ATP J
5. Oxidative decarboxylation of a-ketoglutarate to succinyl
Co A:
It is similar to the conversion of pyruvate to acetyl CoA.
a) Enzymes: a-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase complex.
b) Coenzymes: TPP, Lipoic acid, CoASH, FAD and NAD+.

6. Functions (significance) of TCA:


TCA cycle is amphibolic i.e. it has catabolic (breakdown) and
anabolic (formation) functions.
Energy: 12 ATP
Catabolic functions: Oxidation of
carbohydrate, lipids and proteins.
Anabolic functions: Formation of:
* Amino acids
*Glucose
*Heme
*Fatty acid and cholesterol
*C02
Oraby's illustrated reviews of biochemistry 44

a) Production of energy (12 ATP).


b) Catabolic functions: TCA is the final common pathway for
oxidation of carbohydrates, fats and proteins (amino acids).
c) Anabolic functions: Formation of:
1) Amino acids :
a-Ketoglutarate Transamination • Glutamate.
Oxaloacetate Transamination~ Aspratate.
2) Glucose: e.g.
a-ketoglutarate Gluconeogenesis • Glucose.
3) Heme .synthesis :
Succinyl CoA ,. Heme.
4) Fatty acid and cholesterol: from acetyl CoA
(synthesized in cytosol): (see the figure).
(Nota that acetyl CoA Is producad In inltochondrla. The
Inner mltoc.hondrlal membrane Is hnpermeable to acetyl
CoA. To overcome this Impermeability, acetyl CoA
combines with oxaloacetata to form citrate. Citrate
(dlffuaaa to cytosol) + Oxaloacetata • Acetyl CoA •
Fatty acid and cholesterol.

IMitochondria) Inner Outer (Cytosol)


rntmllrane mtmbriM

......... Chrate ----···


.. ··~~;;:"n;,.j--• Citrate
~! ~j f',~ ~1-
.\~~;·~ .; co~
i.: ·,:.,.·.~ :r:~ PoDyM~
l.l:r.i:'·..!·

::'::.~ ~];lj fl•aN}

5) COa produced in TCA is used in the following (COa


fixation) reactions:
> Pyruvate + COa ,. Oxaloacetate Gluconeogenesis )
Glucose.
>Acetyl COA + COa + Malonyl CoA ,. Fatty acids.
>Ammonia + ATP + COa ,. Carbamoyl phosphate ,.
Urea and pyrimidine.
> Propionyl CoA + COa ,. Methyl malonyl CoA .,.
Succinyl CoA ,. Intermediate of citric acid cycle.
> Formation of C6 of purine.
>Synthesis of HaC03 I HC0 3 buffer.
Carbohydrate metabolism
45

7. In vitro inhibition of TCA cycle :


a) Flouroacetate (F,-CH2-COSCoA): inhibits aconitase enzyme.
b) Arsenate: inhibits a-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase enzyme.
c) Malonic acid: inhibits succinate dehydrogenase enzyme
(competitive inhibition).
... - - - - , Flouroacetate
;> ' ~-
"' Acetyl CoA '\I
/ Oxaloaeetate ~ \
'iJ'
Malate
FluToeltrate
\
~<-I
:::nlc
(
I
FumoTnte
CltT\otc

lAcoNiTASE 1

su:,~:;E _]f Iaoctcfaco

DEIIY[)ROCI!HASE \ a ·Kotog~utorato

Succin~atc ) •• ,~!;
DEHYDROGENASE -
-·---~--

Succtnyl CoA e~

8. Regulation of citric acid cycle:


TCA is regulated through the key enzymes (citrate synthase,
isocitrate dehydrogenase and a-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase)
and the availability of Oa:

Long chain
.---- ................ --.---- ·--·------·. acyl CoA
i Acetyl CoA ••.• , i .:
Oxalo~cetate ~ t ~0
I

G jCitrate syn_tltasl!i e+
+
•'
•' ..-'*'. I

... . · 1
/ Citrate

~ Isocitrate
~ ............ E) 1 ,-~-s-oc_i_t_r__a_~_e_-D-Hj

\\ OxalTucoinato

\. a- ltetoglutrate
\ ........... 0 1\a-Ketogl~_!rat~ DR)

Succinyl CoA --·--------····-------


Regulation of citric acid cycle

a) Citrate synthase :
1) Stimulated by acetyl CoA, oxaloacetate, ADP and NAD+.
2) Inhibited by long chain acyl CoA, citrate,. succinyl CoA,
ATP and NADH, H•.
Oraby's illustrated reviews of biochemistry 46

b) Isocitrate dehydrogenase and a-ketoglutarate


dehydrogenase:
t) Stimulated by NAD•, ADP.
2) Inhibited by NADH, H• and ATP.
c) Availability of Oxygen: Citric acid cycle needs oxygen to
proceed (i.e. aerobic pathway). This is because in absence of
oxygen, respiratory chain is inhibited leading to increase
NADH,H• o+ inhibition of TCA cycle.

9. Sources and fate of oxaloacetate:


a) Sources of oxaloacetate:
t) Oxidation of malate: Final step in TCA cycle.
2) Transamination of aspartate: See protein
metabolism.
3) Carboxylation of pyruvate: By pyruvate carboxylase
and biotin (see
cu.-cooa CoASH HOH
gluconeogenesis). I ~te 1~ Oaf -COOB
HO-C -COOB _ _, CR -COOH
-r~__;=----...:::::;;_

4) Cleavage of I
ca.-cooa 0g 1

al1 - C-SCoA
citrate: Citrate Al::etyl CoA Oxaloacetate
b) Fate of oxaloacetate:
I) Formation of citrate: By citrate synthase (first step in
TCA cycle).
0
2) Reduction to malate. I
CH3 - C- COOH
3) Transamination into Pyruvate
aspartic acid.
C02 _- ATP
Biotin

O•C-COOH
I
CH 2 - COOH
Oxaloacet.te

I .L I .~ ~~~..........
'T
1

;:1~
Malato Cltnlte
(iro~~~!i_OIIj
~rr
Aspartate
Sources and fate of oxaloacet.te.
Carbohydrate metabolism 47

10. Energy production at substrate level in glucose


oxidation:
a) The removal of hydrogen atoms from a compound is
accompanied by a release of energy. If this energy is captured
in phosphate or sulfate bonds, it will produce high-energy
compounds.
b) The high energy compounds formed by glucose oxidation are:
l) Glyceraldhyde-3-p -+ 1,3 BPG (phosphate bond).
2) Phosphoglycerate -+ phosphoenol pyruvate (phosphate
bond).
3) Pyruvate -+ Acetyl CoA (sulfate bond).
4) a-Ketoglutarate -+ Succinyl CoA (sulfate bond).

II. Pasteur effect:


a) It is the inhibition of glycolysis (anaerobic oxidation) by the
presence of oxygen.
b) Explanation: Aerobic oxidation of glucose produces
increased amount of ATP and citrate -+ those inhibit
phosphofructokinase-1 (one of the key enzymes of glycolysis)
-+ Inhibition of glycolysis.

III.Pentose Phosphate Pathway (Hexose Phosphate


Pathway):
A. Definition: It is an alternative pathway for glucose oxidation
where:
1. ATP (energy) is neither produced nor utilized.
2. Its main function is to produce NADPH ,H• and pentoses.
B. Location:
1. Intracellular location: cytosol.
2. Organ location:
a) It is active in tissues where NADPH,H• is needed for fatty
acids and steroids synthesis.
1) Adipose tissue and liver: It supplies NADPH,H• for
Lipogenesis.
2) Adrenal cortex, ovaries and testes: It supplies
NADPH, H• for steroid synthesis.
3) Red cells: It supplies NADPH,H• for production of
reduced glutathione.
4) Retina: It supplies NADPH,H• for reduction of retinal
into retinol.
Oraby's Illustrated reviews of biochemistry 48

b) In many tissues: It supplies pentoses for synthesis of


nucleotides.
C. Reactions (steps):
This pathway occurs in two phases; oxidative and non-oxidative:
1. Oxidative (irreversible) phase: where 3 molecules of
glucose-6-phosphate are converted into 3 molecules of
ribulsose-s-phosphate with production of NADPH,H+ and CO:~ .
2. Non-oxidative (reversible) phase: Where the 3 molecules of
ribulose-s-phosphate are interacted and converted into 2

molecules of glucose-6-phosphate and one molecule of


glyceraldhyde-3-phosphate.

Glu~6se~6·p::::::eHtO Gluc~0se~6·p:::~:t: 10 Glu~~s~e6·::::~::0


,..,GW~C-O~SE~-~~~.-PH-:0:-:SPHATE-:--~~

t f
. DEHYDROGENASE . NADPH + W NAOPH + H• NADPH + H•

6-Phospho· &·Phospho· 6-Phospho·


gluconate gluconate gluc:onate

B-4'HO$PHOo c, NAOP• C o t NADP• C, NAOP•


GLUCONATE
DEHYDROGENASE
NADPH + W NAOPH + H• NAOPH + H"

Oxidative)

(non-oxidative l
13·EPIMERASE I
I CO,
==-==n-;::-:;-,.,-,.,-- -·Ribulose 5-phosphate-- Ribulose
c, c
KETO·
ISOMERASE
I
J
C01

13-EPIMERASE s
• -
c
I
I C0 2
5·phosphate --Ribulose 5·phosphate---

Xylulose 5-phosphate Ribose 5·phosphate Xylulose 5-phosphate


c,

Sedoheptulose 7-phosphate

c~

Fructose &-phosphate

c, ·
I ALDOLASE I
c3 I
Glyceraldehyde 3·phosphate

PHOSPHOTRiose
ISOMERASE

c. I
% Fructose 1,6-bisphosphate

FRUCT0Sfl.1,6·
BISPHOSPHATASE

% Fructose &·phosphate
C•J PHOSPHOHEXOSE
ISOMERASE

Glucose &·phosphate Glucose &·phosphate % Glucose &·phosphate


c. c. c,.
Carbohydrate metabolism 49

<='0

H-;- OH I COOH
I
H-~-
OH
HO-C- H 0
H-~-OH
H-~
I H:zO
Ho-y- H
H-C-OH
I
H-f- OH
CHz-o-® CH 2-o-®
6 Phoaphogluconolaclone
6 Pllotlphogluconlc acid
NACP•

rJ
COOH
I
H-~- OH_
6 Phospho-
gluconote
deh
NADPH•H•
enosc
II

y•o
H-C-OH
I
H-e- OH
I
CHz-o-®
3 Keto • 6 ohoaoho·
gluconic acid

~~OH ~~OH Hi~- OH


y•o c~ y•o y•o
H-~- OH H-~- OH H-~·~H
H-~-OH H-C-OH H-C-OH
I
CHa-o-® ~Ha-o-® CH 1-o-®
Rlbuloao -5- phoaphato

nIIsomcrosel
H~•O
- Ribulose -5- phoaphalo

n
H~-OH
[Epimerosel
--

.
s
- - Ribulose -5· phosphate - -

[EpimeroseJ
HrJ- OH
H~-OH ~

:~t:~: ~~ ".:~:~
C•O
,.I
HO:~-H
H-J- OH
°CH 2 -o-® ~Ha-o-® cH 2 ~o-®
Rlboae -5- phos~phale
ITronske.:;:,osc I Xylulose -5- phosphate Xyluloae -5- phosphate
'\!:.."" H -"c a 0
ttf~-OH ~
=~.I •0
,.I

HO-oC-H
~· ~GlycoralH-"&a~:-®
dehyde-..-p
• hoap hal e
H-s- OH H!'C•O
H-e- OH ITronsoldolosc I H-"~-OH ..,__ _ _ __
H~-OH H~-OH
~ I
CHz-o-® °CHz-o-®
Sedohtptuose ·7· phosphate Erythrose -4· phosphate~
.
Hf~- OH H-"c • o
Hr~- OH ,.I

"i. 0 "y• 0 "-cr-o"


Ho!'c-H Ho!'cr-" "cHz-o-®
Glyceraldohydo -3· phoaphato
H-·C- OH H-"c-OH
H-•b- OH H-
0
b- OH
ol
"~Hz-o-® cHa-o-®
Fructose -6· phosphate

n
Fructoae -6· phosphate

n
Glucoao -6· phosphate
Glucose -6· phosphate
i Glucose ·6· phosphate

INonoxidative rcactiotLFJ (reveraible) J


Oraby's illustrated reviews of biochemistry 50

D. Functions of pentose phosphate pathway:


Production ofpentons: (which are constituent of)
• RNA ,DNA.
• ATP ,GTP ........ etc.
• NAD• ,FAD ...... etc.
Production ofNADPH ± H•: (which is necessaryfor)
• synthesis of substrates e.g. FA , cholesterol.. ..... etc.
• Reduction of glutathione.
• Hydroxylation of aromatic compounds.
• Phagocytosis and respiratory burst.

1. Production of pentoses:
Which are essential for synthesis of nucleic acids (RNA and
DNA), nucleotides (as ATP, GTP) and coenzymes (as NAD•,
NADP, FAD).
2. Production of NADPH, H•: It is important for:
a) Synthesis of many substrates:
1) Synthesis of fatty acids (lipogenesis) cholesterol and
other steroid hormones.
2) Synthesis of sphingosine and galactolipids.
3) Essential for glucuronic acid metabolism.
4) Synthesis of non essential amino acids.
5) Synthesis of malate from pyruvate by malic enzyme.
b) In RBCs: Reduction of lutathlone:

G - S - S - G ____:G:..:l:::u.:..:ta:..:t:.=h;:io;;,:;n:::e...:r~e;,;:d~uc:.:t:.:a::.se=---•
........... '""':;; 2 G. SB
Oxidized KADPB+B+ NADP+ Reduced
glutathione glutathione

Reduced glutathione is essential for:


·1) Normal integrity of RBCs.
2) Maintenance of SH group of RBCs enzymes.
3) Removal of hydrogen peroxide (HaOa), which is a
toxic compound that causes cell membrane fragility.
4) Inactivation of insulin
5) Detoxication of many drugs and carcinogens
e) In liver: Hydroxylation of aromatic and aliphatic
compounds:
NADPH,H+ acts as coenzyme for liver microsomal P-450
mono-oxygenase system (enzyme). This is the major
pathway. for the hydroxylation of toxic aromatic and
aliphatic compounds such as steroids, alcohols and many
drugs converting them into non-toxic compounds (see chapter
of xenobiotics, part I).
Carbohydrate metabolism 51

d) Phagocytosis by white
blood cells ~BACTERIUM

(respiratory burst):
1) Phagocytosis is the
~<>--- MACROPHAGE

engulfment of
02

.
microorganisms
NADPH ~~Jl!'
and foreign bodies Respiratory
1burst ..
by white blood ~
cells.
2) White blood cells
contain an enzyme
NADP+ 1
0 2 "(Superoxlde)'
1

Superoxide
dismutase
-

'

called:
NADPH+H+ HCr~H202f Fe
2•
oxidase enzyme 1 Myefo-
peroxidase
3
Fe •
present in cell H20 §
membrane. J ·-
"'L._
"""'HOCI• CHi~
~

3) After phagocytosis
has occurred,

•• •
NADPH+H• oxidase
converts oxygen, 02 '
{derived from
surrounding ~..................~~. . . ...
Neutrophil phagocytosis and the oxygen-
tissues) into super dependent myeloperoxidase system for
oxide ions {O:.d- killing bacteria in phagolysosomes.

4) Definition of respiratory burst:


It is the rapid consumption of molecular oxygen that
accompanies the forma~ion of superoxid.
S) Superoxide is then converted into H 2 0 2 by superoxide
dismutase enzyme.
6) H:zO:z by myeloperoxidase enzyme in the presence of HCl
is converted into hypochlorite (HOCI·), which kills
bacteria.
e) Deficiency of NADPH+H•-oxidase leads to chronic
bacterial infection.

E. Regulation of Pentose phosphate pathway:


Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase is the key enzyme of pentose
phosphate pathway. It is stimulated by insulin and NADP• and
inhibited by NADPH, H• and acetyl CoA.
Oraby's illustrated reviews of biochemistry 52

NADP+ Insulin
~e~~

Glucose-6-P __ R~..::::G-6-~-
:...:...P..::Dehydrq=z=:asenase=::.:·
::L.)--+• 6 Phosphogluconolactone

NADPH,H+
JIG"Acetyl CoA
F. Differences between pentose phosphate pathway (ppp)
and glycolysis:
ppp Glvcolvsis
Location In certain cells In all cells
Oxidation of Oxidation occurs in the Phosphorylation occurs
glucose first reaction. first then oxidation
Coenzyme NADP• NAD•
EnerKY No enerJtY nroduction 2 or 8 ATP
CO a Produced Not produced
Pentoses Produced Not produced

G. Pentose phosphate pathway in skeletal muscles:


I. Skeletal muscles are poor in glucose-6-phosphate
dehydrogenase enzyme, but they contain transketolase and
transaldolase enzymes.
2. Skeletal muscles ohtain their pentose requirement by reversible
reactions of pentose phosphate pathway, using fructose-6-
phosphate and glyceraldehyde-3-p and the enzymes
transketolase and transaldolase.

Xyluloso -8· phosphate Ribo&e -8- phosphato


t J
X!Tronskctclase
----~ I
Glycoraldohydo -3· phosphalo SC!doh&ptuloso ·7. phosphato

•----xTronKidalase-:

Fruc:toso -6· pho$phato Xyluloao ~phosphate

··----. J
:x!Tronskctalase
r---~ I
Fruc:toso -6· pho$phate Glycor aldohydo -3· phosphat

(',.,r.q

H. Defects of pentose phosphate pathway:


Favism (Deficiency of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase
enzyme}:
I. Definition:
It is type of a hemolytic anemia (excessive destruction of RBCs}
results after ingestion of fava beans and some other compounds.
These compounds alter the structure of the enzyme + ,J, G-6-P
dehydrogenase enzyme activity.
Carbohydrate metabolism 53

2. Mechanism:
a) Deficiency of glucose-6-P dehydrogenase + Decreased
NADPH,H• production (which is essential to reduce
glutathione in RBCs) .

G - S - S - G ........:G:.::l:::u:.:.t::.at:::h:::i;;o;::ne:....::r:.:e;z::d~uc:.:t:.:a:.=B.:::.e_
;;;= c::::::;; .., 2 G • SH

Oxidized HADPB+B+ HADP+ Reduced


glutathione glutathione

b) Reduced glutathione (G-SH) is needed to remove hydrogen


peroxide (H:aO:a) which is toxic to the cell.

Glutathione peroxidase
2 G-SB + 8 111 0 111 -----------> G-S-S-G + 2 HaO

Deficiency of glucose-6-P I)H -. + NADPH,W • reduced +


glutathione • Accumulation of HzOz • Hemolysis of RBCs

c) Effect of HaOa on RBCs:


I) H:~O:a causes peroxidation of fatty acids present in cell
membrane+ Hemolysis.
2) H:aO:a causes conversion of hemoglobin into met-
hemoglobin. These toxic compounds increase the red
cell membrane fragility.

_....:;[61;;;uc;;;osc~-~6;;-p;d~•;;hy;;d;;rog;;enos~~·l_ _. · 6 Phospho-
Glucose - 6 - phosphate
• 7 "\ • gluconate
+ +
\ I I /
-
NADP
~
,
NADPI-I+I-I

~: +--~',~.~~-~/~~~~---
1 ~\ \
2 GSI-I
I
. 2 GS
[61utathlonc reductase] J
Met-Hb ~
.
"~---....:0[;;;;;Pero;;;;;;;;i;;;x;;;;;ld;;i;;asc~)--------'-
l-lzOz~
Peroxldatln ,.
of fatty acids

Mechanism and effects of favism.

3. Signs and symptoms of favism:


a) Patients with enzyme deficiency show attacks of hemolytic
anemia in the form of severe jaundice and decreased
hemoglobin concentration when exposed to certain oxidizing
agents such as:
Oraby's Illustrated reviews of biochemistry 54

1) Special food as fava beans.


2) Antimalarial drugs: as primaquine.
3) Antibiotics as streptomycin and sulfa.

IV.Uronic acid pathway:


A. Definition: It is a minor pathway, in which glucose is converted
into glucuronic acid.
B. Location of the pathway:
l. Intracellular location: cytosol.
2. Organ location: Mainly liver.
c. Steps:

H, .,o-®
H-~- OH I
c>
Glucose HO-C-H 0
H-~-OH
H-eI
I
CHz-OH

UDP • Glucuronate
Urldlnedlphosphate glucose
(UDP ·Glucose)

Glucuronatt -~....__.

NADPH+H+ ~
NADP+ ~
L·Xylulose .=:;z::=• D·· X)'lltol ~ D ·Xylulose
.(J.
pentose phosphate pathway
C'wS,

D. Functions (importance) of uronic acid pathway:


This pathway produces glucuronic acid, which is important for:
I. Synthesis of substrates:
a) Glycosaminoglycans.
b) Vitamin C, L·ascorbic acid (not in human).
carbohydrate metabolism 55

2. Conjugation reactions:
UDP-glucuronic acid is used for conjugation with many body
compounds to make them more soluble before excretion e.g.
steroid hormones and bilirubin.
3. Detoxification reactions:
UDP-glucuronic acid is used for conjugation with toxic
compounds to make them less toxic e.g. phenols (see chapter of
xenobiotics, part I).

E. Fate of glucuronic acid (see diagram):


UDP-glucuronate is converted to glucuronate then -+ L-
xylulose -+ D-xylitol -+ D-xylulose -+ which then joins
pentose phosphate pathway to be completely oxidized.

F. Defects of uronic acid pathway= Essential pentosuria:


1. It is benign rare hereditary disease due to failure of
conversion of L-xylulose into D-xylulose (due to deficiency of
L-xylulose reductase).
2. L-xylulose will accumulate and be excreted in urine. Subjects
excrete 1 to 4 grams of L-xylulose in the urine each day.

q{ycogen 9deta6o{ism
1. Structure of glycogen:
A. Glycogen is homopolysaccharide formed of branched a D glp.cose
units (a 1,4 and a 1,6).
B. The main glycosidic bond is a1-4-linkage. Only at the branGhing
point, the chain is attached by a1-6 linkage.
C. Each branch is made of 12-14 glucose units.

'lj. ':" u·1,8.glycoaldlc

a.1.4-
g!JcoSidlc
'lj.~O~~Ubond
bond 'lj.
I

0{)_!~
l-\ 0:~
... 011
Branched atructuro of
glycogen &howlng G•1,4
ond a-1,8 llnkogu.

Structure of glycogen
Oraby's illustrated reviews of biochemistry 56

11. Location of glycogen: Glycogen is


present mainly in cytosol of liver and
muscles.
A. Liver glycogen is about 120 grams
(about 6 96 of liver weight).
B. Muscle glycogen is about 350 grams
(about 1 96 of total muscles weight).

111.Functions of glycogen:
A. Liver glycogen: It maintains normal
blood glucose concentration especially
during the early stage of fast (between
meals). After 12-18 hours fasting, liver
glycogen is depleted.
B. Muscle glycogen: It acts as a source LocaUon and funcUon of liver
and muscle glycogen.
of energy within the muscle itself
especially during muscle contractions.

IV.Synthesis of glycogen (glycogenesis):


A. Definition: It is the formation of glycogen in liver and muscles.
B. Substrates for glycogen synthesis:
I. In liver:
a) Blood glucose.
b) Other hexoses: fructose and galactose.
c) Non-carbohydrate sources: (gluconeogenesis) e.g. glycerol and
lactate. These are converted first to glucose, then to glycogen.
1. In muscles:
a) Blood glucose only.
c. Steps:
Glucose molecules are the first activated to uridine diphosphate
glucose (UDP-G). Then these UDP-G molecules are added to a
glycogen primer to form glycogen.

Glycogen primer
Glucose Q UDP-Giucose _;....._...;;;;....___;,_ _~,_Glycogen
Glycogen synthase
Branching enzyme
Carbohydrate metabolism 57

1. Formation of UDP-Glucose (UDP-G):


tHexoklnasejMusdes
!Glucokinase Iu-
Glucose Glucuse-6-pbosphate
/Z:g·~
ATP ADP

~tgi/a~1~~~~1
M9••
lII[PHOSPiiO-=--l
~L..UCQ.I!QI~~
UDP-Gluc:ose
t 7""'\ Gluose-1-phosphate

PPI UTP

• Note: Glucose Is converted Into glucose-6-phosphate by


glucokinase in liver and hexokinase In muscles.

2. Formation of glycogen:
a) UDP-Glucose reacts with glycogen primer, which may be:
1) Few molecules of glucose linked together by o.1-4
linkage.
2) A protein called glycogenin. UDP-G molecules react
with -OH of tyrosine of that protein to initiate glycogen
synthesis.
b) Glycogen synthase enzyme:
By the action of glycogen synthase (key enzyme of
glycogenesis), UDP-G molecules are added to glycogen
primer causing elongation of the a1-4 branches up to 12-14
glucose units.
UDP-Giucose + _.I_G; ; ; Iy; ; c; ; ; og._e: ;:;n: ;:;sy: :n: ;:;th: ;:;as: ; ; e; ; ]~ Elongated glycogen primer
Glycogen primer + UDP

c) Branching enzyme:
It transfers parts of the elongated chains (5-8 glucose
residues) to the next chain forming a new o.I-6 glycosidic
bond. The new branches are elongated by the glycogen
synthase and the process is repeated.

v. Breakdown of glycogen (Glycogenolysis):


A. Definition:
It is the breakdown of glycogen into glucose (in liver) and lactic
acid (in muscles).
B. Steps:
1. Phosphorylase (the key enzyme of glycogenolysis) acts on o.I-
4 bonds, breaking it down by phosphorolysis (i.e. breaking
down by addition of inorganic phosphate "Pi"). Therefore, it
removes glucose units in the form of glucose-1-phosphate.
Oraby's illustrated reviews of biochemistry 58

y
Glycogen primer (glycogenin)

~F
UDP-Glucose(s)
:ycogen <uoP-.>
~ UDP(s)

(-\,'
\ \ c::::::::::::.. .
\ ·' 'i)
' ~ I
"'- 1-4 bonds

Elongated chains (a 1-4 bonds)

1=1 ~
'YN•waJ-6 bond

Formation of new a 1-6 bonds

~
Further elongation by
glycogen synthase making
a-1-4 bonds

~
Further branching by
branching enzyme making
a-1-6 bonds

GLYCOGBR

Diagramatlc presentation of glycogen


synthesis.
2. Phosphorylase enzyme acts on the branches containing more
than 4 glucosyl units.
3. When the branch contains 4 glucose units, 3 of them are
transferred to a next branch by transferase enzyme, leaving the
last one.
Carbohydrate metabolism 59

4. The last glucose unit that is attached to the original branch by


al-6 bond is removed by debranching enzyme by hydrolysis (i.e.
breaking the bond down by addition of H 2 0).
5. Glucose-1-phosphate molecules are converted to glucose-6-
phosphate, by mutase enzyme.
6. Fate of glucose-6-phosphate:
a) In liver: glucose-6-phosphate is converted to glucose by
glucose-6-phosphatase.
b) In muscles: there is n2.. glucose-6-phosphatase, so glucose-6-
phosphate enters glycolysis to give lactate.

]Do~~~lng

Vf" \ )
I
IP11os~l ~ ... I~Transferasej ~oj

-~--, 7\ )
/(1 ~
PI (s) Glucose-1-
.~._)
.
Hr> Glucose
(0)

phoaphato (s)
&6

1'"""~1
Glycogen

1
Glucose • 6 • phosphate / Musclu \.

-----~ IGIU:!!e-6-
phosphatase

~
Glucose
\ I
~~--

Lactate \1),\l\\\1!11//1

Mechanism of glycogenolysis In liver and muscles.

Vl.Regulation of glycogenesis and glycogenolysis:


A. There is coordinated regulation of glycogenesis and
a
glycogenolysis i.e. conditions leading to stimulation of
glycogenolysis, inhibiting at the same time glycogenesis and vise
versa.
B. During fasting, glycogenolysis is stimulated and glycogenesis is
inhibited. This provides blood glucose from liver glycogen.
C. After meal, part of absorbed glucose (40%) goes to general
circulation to be utilized. The remaining (6o%) is converted into
glycogen in liver. So after meal, glycogenesis is stimulated and
glycogenolysis is inhibited.
D.The principle enzymes controlling glycogen metabolism are
glycogen synthase and phosphorylase. These are regulated as
follows:
Oraby's illustrated reviews of biochemistry 60

After meal_. t Blood glucose •.,...


1@1111
Glycogen
e
i !0 Glycogen

D,+-
Giucose
Phosphorylase
0
Glycogen synthase
e
--.tf
Glucose
t
burlng fasting _. ~Blood glucose.:!'

Summary of hormonal regulation of glycogenesis and glycogenolysis.

I. During fasting:

Glycogenolysis is stimulated by:


* Cyclic AMP and protein kinase
• Calcium ions and calmodulin protein

a) Blood glucose level tends to be decreased. This stimulates


secretion of epinephrine, nor-epinephrine and glucagon
hormones.
b) These hormones stimulate adenylate cyclase enzyme, which
converts ATP into cyclic AMP (cAMP).
c) cAMP stimulates protein kinase enzyme .
d) Protein kinase enzyme stimulates phosphorylation of both
glycogen phosphorylase and glycogen synthase.

Glycogen synthase ----"Pr~o:iote~i~n;;..,;;;:lt::::in~a=s=e---+~ Phosphorylated


~ ~ glycogen synthase
ATP ADP !Inactive]

Protein kinase
Phosphorylase ----"~:..:..;::'S-=-..-...-=:::::::~=---+~ Phosphorylated
;r ")j phosphorylase
ATP ADP (active I

e) As a result, glycogenolysis proceeds causing increase of blood


glucose. At the same time , glycogenesis will be inhibited.
f) Epinephrine and nor epinephrine stimulate mobilization of
calcium ions (Ca 2 +) from mitochondria to cytosol. Ca2+ ions
then combine with a protein called calmodulin causing its
conformational changes and activating it.
......
U)
After meal .....
...

cAMP AMP
0 (Phosphorylase)
(Inactive)
P, Glycogen

~r
J

'
(active)

Glucose

Glucose
el Glycogen
ADP
t ATP

t
ADP t ATP

PPi + cAMP ATP

:g~ ~
.Q
.!!!
During fasting····- • Glucagon
' Epineplu-ine ~~
~
~
~
:li..
II Hormonal regulation of glycogenesis and glycogenolysis.

s
Oraby's Illustrated reviews of biochemistry 62

g) The active calmodulin causes phosphorylation of both


glycogen phosphorylase and synthase (like protein kinase).
This leads to stimulation of glycogenolysis.
2. After meal:
a) Blood glucose level tends to be increased. This stimulates
secretion of insulin hormone.
b) Insulin causes the following:
1) Stimulation of phosphodiesterase enzyme, which
converts, cAMP into AMP i.e. abolishes the stimulatory
effect of cAMP.
2) Stimulation of phosphatase enzyme, which removes
phosphate from phosphorylase (inhibiting it) and
glycogen synthase (stimulating it). As a result
glycogenesis will proceed and glycogenolysis will be
inhibited.

Phosphorylated Phosphatase
--..:..::.~~ii===;..._--+• Phosphorylase
phosphorylase ~
\!Y !Inactive!

Phosphorylated _ _..:.P.::.ho:..:s~p_.h\r:=-a.;:;.;ta::.:s:.:e;...__-+• Glycogen synthase


glycogen synthase ~Pi
'-Y I active I

Notes:
I. cAMP is an intracellular compound , formed from ATP by an
enzyme called : adenylate cyclase and destroyed by an
enzyme called phosphodiesterase enzyme.
,.., ,..,
tX> tX>
HC~
!Adenylot cyclosel
I He-. !Phosphodiesterase)
I
HC
H-~-OH I iC , H-~OH I H-~-OH I
1
H-e-~
OHq PPI n-&'oli)q H-~·OHq
K-~·
51
OK OK
I I
OH
I
H-~~~ H• C .::.:J OH
CK 2 - O•P·O-P·O·P·OH ScH 2- o-r.- on ·scH 2- o-P·OH
II II II II
0 0 0 0 0
ATP AMP t_<~-~~
1
3 , 5' Cyclic AMP

2. Protein kinase is an enzyme causing phosphorylation of


substrate using ATP as a source of phosphate. This enzyme is
composed of 4 subunits: 2 regulatory (R) and 2 catalytic (C).
The whole protein kinase is inactive, but binding of cAMP with it
removes (R) subunits leaving the active catalytic subunit.
Carbohydrate metabolism 63

['!]]] cAMP
[]]£]
lalal + lclc
Inactive Active
protein kinase protein kinase

VII. Differences between liver glycogen and muscle glycogen:


Uver Jdycoaen Muscle Jdycoaen
Sources: t-Blood glucose. Blood glucose only.
2-0ther hexoses: e.g.
fructose.
3-Non-carbohydrate
sources : e.g. lactate
Amount: 120 grams maximum 350 ~~:ram maximum

Concentration 6% 196
0
0

Functions: It maintains normal blood private source of energy for


glucose concentration between muscles only
meals
End product: Glucose Lactate (due to absence of
R}ucose-6- phosphatase).
Effect of
hormone:
Insulin: Stimulates glycogenesis Same
Epinephrine: Stimulates glycogenolysis Same
Gluca~~:on: Stimulates i}yco~~:enolysis No effect

VIII. Glycogen storage diseases:


A. Definition:
These are group of inherited disorders characterized by deposition
of abnormal type or quantity of glycogen in the tissues.
B. Causes:
They are mainly due to deficiency of one of enzymes of glycogen
metabolism e.g. glucose-6-phosphatase, debranching enzyme etc.
c. Types: (8 types):
l. Type one (I): Von Gierk' s disease:
a) It is due to deficiency of glucose-6-pbosphatase.
b) It is the commonest type and characterized by:
1) Accumulation of large amount of glycogen in liver. This
leads to disturbance of liver functions.
2) Enlargment of liver (hepatomegally).
3) Fasting hypoglycemia.
4) Ketosis and hyperlipidemia.
5) Hyperuricemia (gout): J. glucose-6-phosphatase •
t Glucose-6-phosphate • t Pentose phosphate pathway
• t Ribose production • t Uric acid • Gout.
Oraby's illustrated reviews of biochemistry 64

2. Type two (II): Pompe • s disease:


a) Glycogen accumulates in lysosomes of all tissue cells.
b) Normally, 1-3% of cellular glycogen is hydrolyzed by lysozomal
glucosidase (acid maltase). Absence of this enzyme in lysosomes
results in accumulation of glycogen in all tissues including
heart. Death occurs during first year due to heart failure.
3. Type three (Ill): Limit dextrosis (Cori • s disease):
a) Due to deficiency of debranching enzymes in liver, muscles
and heart.
b) Glycogen has many short branches.
4. Type four (IV): Amylopectinosis:
a) It is due to absence of branching enzyme.
b) Glycogen formed has no or few branches.
c) Death due to cardiac or liver failure in first year of life.
S. Type five (V): McArdle's syndrome:
a) Due to deficiency of muscle phosphorylase.
b) Glycogen is accumulated in muscles, and does not breakdown
during exercise. This leads to decreased energy.
c) Muscle cramps after short period of exercise.
6. Type six (VI): Her's disease:
a) Due to deficiency of liver phosphorylase.
b) Glycogen is accumulated in liver.
c) Fasting hypoglycemia.
7. Type seven (VII): Tarui's disease:
a) Due to deficiency of phosphofructokinase in muscle and RBCs.
b) Hemolytic anemia and muscle cramps.
8. Type eight (VIII):
a) Due to deficiency of liver phosphorylase kinase.

Types of glycogen storage diseases.


Carbohydrate metabolism 65

qCuconeogenesis
1. Definition:
Gluconeogenesis is the formation of glucose from non-carbohydrate
sources. These sources include:
I. Lactate.
2. Pyruvate.
3. Glycerol.
4. Some amino acids.
5. Propionate (in ruminants only).

11. Functions of gluconeogenesis:


A. Gluconeogenesis supplies the body with glucose:
I. Glucose is the only source of energy for nervous tissues, RBCs
and skeletal muscles during exercises.
2. Glucose is the precursor of milk sugar (lactose) in mammary
gland.
3. Glucose is important during low carbohydrate diet or when liver
glycogen is depleted (liver glycogen is depleted after 12-18
hours).
B. Gluconeogenesis clears the blood from the waste products of
other tissues as lactate (produced by muscles and RBCs).

111.Location of gluconeogenesis::
A. Intracellular location: cytosol and mitochondria.
B. Organ location:
I. Liver (90%).
2. Kidney (10%).

IV.Steps:
The steps of gluconeogenesis are mainly the reversal of glycolysis,
except for the three irreversible kinases which are replaced by the
following enzymes:
Glycolysis Gluconeogenesis
1. Glucokinase 1. Glucose-6-uhosuhatase
2. Phosp_hofructokinase- 1 2. Fructose 1,6 bisphosphatase
3· Pyruvate kinase 3· Pyruvate carboxylase
4· Phosphoenolpyruvate
carboxykinase
Orsby's Illustrated reviews of biochemistry 66

A. Fructose 1.6 his phosphate to fructose-6-


phosphate:
This reaction is catalyzed by the enzyme fructose 1,6
bisphosphatase.
B. Glucose-6-phosphate to glucose:
This reaction is catalyzed by the enzyme glucose-6-phosphatase.
c. Pyruvate to phosphoenol pyruvate:
1. This conversion is done by dicarboxylic acid shuttle and needs 2

enzymes:
a) Pyruvate carboxylase: present in mitochondria.
b) Phosphoenol pyruvate carboxykinase: present in cytosol.

2. Pyruvate should pass first from cytosol to mitochondria by


special transporter.

3. Pyruvate is then converted into oxaloacetate by pyruvate


carboxylase (in the presence of biotin, COa and ATP).

4. The mitochondrial membrane is impermeable to oxaloacetate.


So oxaloacetate is converted to malate by malate
dehydrogenase.

5. Malate is transported to cytosol, where it is converted again into


oxaloacetate (by cytosolic malate dehydrogenase).

6. Oxaloacetate is converted into phosphoenol pyruvate by


phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEP).
Note: Pyruvate never goes in the course of citric acid pathway to
reach malate, because this pathway needs insulin and other factors,
which are deficient during gluconeogenesis.

~ I PyruvaEJ
-..:..~o::::;;li:B
~ -cooK 1~1 ~ -cooK
CH 3 -C-COOH
Pyruvate
8ii=lot:.r.ln;c~?=---+~ CH1 -cooH
~, Blotl ADP+Pi Ozaloacetate NIU>H+H~
/""'""""'\
+
~ CH1 -cooH
Malate
MltochaNfrto

Cytosol u u u NAD U !-u--


COOH I~ pyEUV8tel ~-COOH ~J
~ -o- p • Car.tm.~ ~
HADH~NAD+
CHa-cooH 4
Qxaloacetate
CHa H1 0+C0a+GDP GIP
~
pyruvate
carbohydrate metabolism 67

..:..;·ioec=-=~y GLUCOSE~!
._,!auco=:.:•:...
-

·~
~
1'~
R-D~I
-
~~~~"'-"'"·:E_:_,
H10 ~~- ADP

~ t
a~~" ~-e.~
•nT~ 1:.-l
. T. GL'I'CSIOL

2•PHOSPHOGLYCERATE

~--------·PHOSPHOENOLPYRUVATE
t
~::11_,
~ATP
PYRUVATE LACTATE

PYRUVATE ...,_ _
OXALOACETATE ~ATP+COa
~P'IIIVVATIC-USl!

-::rt:~~~-~
MALATE,.4IH•''f-f---- \ •·~--
CITIII C ACID CYCLI

.......__......
- -. . FUMARATE SUCCIHYL- CoA .,......__ PROPIQHATE

Major pathways In gluconeogenesis In the liver. Entry points of glucogenlc amino acid• after trannmlnatlon aro
indicated by unlabolod arrows.
Oraby's illustrated reviews of biochemistry 68

v. Pathways for different sources of gluconeogenesis:


Any substance that can join common pathway of gluconeogenesis is
considered glycogenic.

Glucoae
~tthioKiK&} t
SCA.iu
~WJ~!t ' -..,,, Glycerald hyde-3·p~ Dlhydroxy+etone-p

T~gpg~phaK-···--l J
Oxaloacetate '
',

'a I
1
Phophoenol pyruvate
Olyco~ophoephate

l***~***l
GLYCEROL
t
Halate
~
Ala.Uu
... ·~.
..···------t> ,....:::·~····
Pyruvate ...,_ LACTATE
I *******

'
Pylvate

.Oxaloaeet.ate ··..c- Acetyl CoA

/ .
t 1 '
................
''ll&
Citrate

~-- Halato i ASPARTIC ACID . \


t
I
**************lr
\\
T!J~o.4.iKt} I KREBS CYCLE
IJ
Ph&.K!It- --co Fumarat!! 1
ata.Une. ~ 1

I4otue.e.ill&} \\ //
.. &tU01t.iu .. \ 1
Vat.tu •., \ /
'<-\ /
Succinyl CoA ~

(
•-
•-ICetoslutrate
•' • { H.U.Ud.iu
P~o.t4u
Hfi~Olt!/lf~OUK&
***********1
PROPIONIC
1*********** t
************
Transamination :
I
:
I ~9-iK.ill&

i**********'
GLUTAHATd,:3--·· __ ,,

A. Gluconeogenesis from lactate:


1. Lactate is converted into pyruvate by lactate dehydrogenase:

actate + NAD• Lactate dehydrogenase •P ruvate + NADH+H•

2. pyruvate then joins common pathway to give glucose (as


indicated in the diagram).
B. Gluconeogenesis from glutamate:
t. Glutamate is converted into a.-ketoglutarate by transamination
reaction:
Carbohydrate metabolism 69

H1 N-CH- COOH CHs 0 "' C - COOH CHs


I I
I
+ C a 0 ALT ~GPT~ I
CHa B6P
) CH 1 + CH -NHa
I I I I
CH 1 -COOH COOH CH 11 -COOH COOH
Glutamate Pyruvate 0( -Ketoglu- Alanine
tarate

2. a -Ketoglutarate is converted into malate as follows :


a -Ketoglutarate-+ Succinyl CoA-+ Fumarate-+ Malate.
3. Malate then passes out the mitochondria and join common
pathway to glucose (as indicated in the diagram).

c. Gluconeogenesis from propionic acid:


I. This occurs only in ruminants
CH, -CHa- COOH
and not in human.
Propionic acid
2. Propionic acid is converted into
succinyl CoA as shown in the
[ProplonytthCoAI r~ ATP + CoASH
figure. syn aseJ 1r
++
3. Succinyl CoA is then converted Mg ~AMP+ PPI +H 2o
into malate:
Succinyl CoA -+ Fumarate -+
'" 9
CH, -C~- C- SCoA·
Malate. Proplonyl CoA
4. Malate passes out the v-co•
mitochondria and join common [~v-ATP
Biotin
pathway to glucose (as indicated
in the diagram). ~ADP+P1
'If

0II
CH,-CH - C-SCoA

LcooH
Methylmalonyl CoA
D. Gluconeogenesis from

!
Coenzyme fonn
glycerol: Methytmlllotlyt eoAl
of vitamin a, 2
['-·_ _ _ _ _~
mutlJSfl (Deoxyadenosyl
I. Glycerol is mobilized from cobalamin)
adipose tissue during fasting.
Two molecules of glycerol are 9
CH2- C-SCoA
used to form glucose: I
CH2- COOH
Succlnyl CoA

Gluconeogenesis from propionic


acid.
Oraby's illustrated reviews of biochemistry 70

cn.-on
I : Gly~-;~;j~ ~~~'-Oil
CH -OH
I
CH 1 -otr ("\- --. b:.~~~®
Glycerol ATP ADP Glycerol-3·
phosphate

NAD~~ phosphat•
Glycerol ·3·1
NADH + W uhydroguou

CR 1 -0H
I
.,. •• ~
cID 0

,,
,, ,, CH,-0-®
Dihydroxvacetone
~· phosphate
Glyceraldehvde-3- ~~
phosphate ~alas;-A)

1
Fructose 1,8 blsphosphate

®il;;.!i!..l
Fructose-&· phoaphate

llllmOIIIUGM I
Olucose-8- phosphate

®11~~1
Slucose

Note:
.
Two important c11cles are related to gluconeogenesis: Cori c11cle
(see glllcOillsis, part II) and alanine glucose Cl/cle (see protein
metabolism, part III).

VI.Bnergu cost of gluconeogenesis:


Gluconeogenesis is an endergonic process (anabolic). For conversion of
two molecules of pyruvate to one molecule of glucose, 4 molecules of
ATP, 2 molecules of GTP and two molecules of NADH, H• are utilized
as follows:
A. ATP and GTP:
Two pyruvate • Two oxaloaoetate (·2ATP)
Two Oxaloaaetate • Two phosphoenolpyruvate (·2 GTP)
Two 8 phoaphoglyoerate • Two 1,8 Blaphoaphoglyoerate (·2 ATP)
B. NADH,H+:
Two 1,8 Bl~pbosphoglyoerate • Two glyoeraldhyde-8-phoaphate
(·2 NADH+H•)
Carbohydrate metabolism
71

VII. Regulation of gluconeogenesis:


A. Hormonal regulation:
I. Glucocorticolds e.g. cortisol: stimulate gluconeogenesis by
the following mechanisms:
a) They Induce: (stimulate) the synthesis of gluconeogenesis
enzymes which are: pyruvate carboxylase,
phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase, fructose 1,6
bisphosphatase and glucose-6-phosphatase.
b) Glucocorticoids stimulate protein catabolism by tissues _,. t
glycogenic amino acids available for gluconeogenesis.
2. Glucagon: Stimulates gluconeogenesis by lowering the level of
fructose 2,6 bisphosphate (see regulation of glycolysis).
3. Insulin: Inhibits gluconeogenesis. It acts as repressor
(inhibitor) for synthesis of enzymes of gluconeogenesis: pyruvate
carboxylase etc.
B. Acetyl CoA and ATP:
I. Stimulate gluconeogenesis by inhibiting glycolysis (through
inhibiting phosphofructokinase-!) and stimulate gluconeogenesis
(by stimulating fructose 1,6 bisphosphatase).
2. Acetyl CoA also stimulates pyruvate carboxylase
(gluconeogenesis) and inhibit pyruvate dehydrogenase
(oxidation).

Sources ant£fate of pyruvate

Serine
Alanine

_ _ _ _ ___......
l
Glucose

Tr~tion lm,eol>'!_~l __ _
ILactate dehydro§cnasel
tb'loxtdatiw dellllination ..,Pyruvate~ ,.. Lactate

Oxaloacetate Acetyl CoA


"""---~ Malate

A. Sources:
l. Glucose oxidation: glycolysis.
2. Lactate: by lactate dehydrogenase.
3. Malate: by malic enzyme.
Oraby's illustrated reviews of biochemistry 72

4. Alanine: by transamination.
5. Serine: by non-oxidative deamination.
6. Other amino acids: methionine, cysteine, threonine and
glycine.
B. Fate:
I. Glucose formation: gluconeogenesis.
2. Lactate formation: by lactate dehydrogenase.
3. Malate formation: by malic enzyme.
4. Alanine formation: by transamination.
5. Oxaloacetate formation: by pyruvate carboxylase.

9r1.eta6o{ism of monosaccnarides
qa{actose meta6o{ism
I. Importance of galactose: In the form of UDP-galactose:
A. Synthesis of lactose (=milk sugar) .
. B. Synthesis of glycolipids (cerebrosides).
C. Synthesis of glycoproteins and proteoglycans.
D. Synthesis of glycosaminoglycans.

Galactose
11. Conversion of
galactose into ATP~I Goloctokinasel
ADP
Mg••
-
.

glucose:
Galactose -1- phosphate
A. Site: Liver. Urtdlnedlphospllate glucose
(UDP • Glucose)
B. Steps: Galactose -1- phosphate'
!uridyl transferase

UDP -Galactose Glucoso • 1 • phosphate

u~P - Galactose·~
ep11nerose
1
UDP - Glucose

11-..
Glycogen
""'""!!

<G~ol~sls '
~---'

1
Glucose
Carbohydrate metabolism 73

C. Galactosemia:
I. Definition: It is increase blood galactose concentration due to
inability to metabolize galactose.
2. Causes: Inherited enzyme deficiency of:
a) Galactokinase.
b) Galactose-t-P uridyl transferase.
c) Epimerase.
3. Effect:
a) Cataract (=opacity of eye lens):
Galactose in the eye is reduced by an enzyme called aldose
reductase into galacticol, which accumulates causing cataract.

(Aldolse reductase)
Galactose Galacticol ~ Cataract
.,..•.>

b) Liver failure.
c) Mental retardation.
d) Galactosuria: excretion of galactose in urine.

III. Conversion of glucose into galactose in mammary


gland and lactose synthesis:
Lactose is a disaccharide formed of f3 -galactose attached to a.-glucose
by f31-4 bonds. It is called milk sugar.
A. Steps:
1. Glucose is first converted into UDP-galactose.

Glucose UDP -Glucose --;===::::;'~~A~o·====~- UDP-Galactose


URI DINE
ATP DIPHOSPHOGALACTOSE
PPi 4·EPIMERASE
UDPGic Lactose
PYROPHOSPHORVLASE UTP

ADP I PHOSPHOGLUCOMUTASE I
Glucose -6- phosphate - - - - - - Glucose ·1· phosphate
Glucose

Conversion of glucose into galactose and synthesis of lactose in mammary gland. ,........
L
~ ,

2. UPD-Galactose reacts with a molecule of glucose in the presence


of lactose synthase enzyme to form lactose.
Oraby's illustrated reviews of biochemistry 74

Pructose meta6o{ism
1. Dietary Sources offructose:
A. Sucrose: (table sugar): Hydrolysis of sucrose _. glucose and
fructose.
B. Fructose as a monosaccharide is present in honey and in
many fruits and vegetables.

11. Importance offructose:


A. Energy production: 15% of daily energy is derived from
fructose.
B. Fructose is the major energy source for spermatozoa in the
seminal vesicle.
Note: Entry of fructose to the tissue cells is
not insulin dependent.

III.Metabolism offructose:
A. In the liver:
1. Liver contains fructokinase enzyme, which phosphorylates
fructose into fructose-t-phosphate.
2. Fructose-t-phosphate by aldolase B enzyme _.
Dihydroxyacetone phosphate + glyceraldehyde.
3. Glyceraldehyde _. glyceraldehydes 3- phosphate.
Fructose

( F~inose)l ATP

Fructose -1- phosphate

. (Aldolase 8)
' - - - - - - - • Glyceraldehyde

ATP! (Triose kinase)


Dlhydroxyacetone Glyceraldehyde -3-
phosphate phosphate

61uconeogenosis i
Glucose
i OldciGtian

Pyruvate

Metabolism of fructose In liver.


Carbohydrate metabolism 75

4. Glyceraldehyde-3-p + Dihydroxyacetone p may undergo:


a) Glucose formation (gluconeogenesis): main pathway.
b) Oxidation to pyruvate (glycolysis).

B. In extra-hepatic tissues:
I. Because fructokinase is not available in muscles and adipose
tissue, fructose is metabolized by hexokinase and other enzymes
into pyruvate • oxidation.

Fructose
i!!,..ldnue).ATP
FRictose-6..phosphate
(Phosphfructoklnaae-1) ~ ATP

(/\
Fructose 1,8 blsphosphate

Dlhydroxyacetone:-P e Gtyceraldehyde-3.p

,ij.
Oxidation ,._ 2 Pyruvate fJ'~

Fructose metabolism in extrahepatic


tissues.

c. In the testis (seminal vesicle), lens. peripheral


neryes and renalclomeruli:
1. Glucose is converted into fructose through sorbitol
formation:

H -cI =o H2 -9 ·OH Hz•9 •OH


H •C-oR [ ALDOSE ] ti ·C·OH cI .. o
HO·~ •H , REDUCTASE!
I
HO•C ·H HO·f ·H
I
H •C•OH /'---..... )' H -c-oa H ·f·OH
H •C•OH NADPH+H+ '¥ I
H •9•08 H ·C·OH
~Hz •OH NADP+ CHz•OH
I
CH 2-0H
Glucose Sorbitol Fructose
Ol'tlbiJ

2. Fructose is the main nutrient for sperms.


3. Deficiency of fructose in semen correlates with male Infertility.
Oraby's illustrated reviews of biochemistry 76

IV. Genetic disorders offructose metabolism:


A. Essential fructosuria:
1. Cause: Due to deficiency of fructoklnase enzyme.
2. Effect: Not serious condition. The excess accumulated fructose
is lost in urine (fructosuria).

B. Hereditary fructose intolerance:


1. Cause: Due to deficiency of a/do/ase-8 enzyme. This leads to
accumulation of fructose-1-phosphate.
2. Effect: the accumulation of fructose-1-phosphate leads to:
a) Damage of liver and kidney tissues + Liver and kidney failure.
b) Inhibition of phosphorylase enzyme. This leads to inhibition
of glycogenolysis and hypoglycemia.

(8{ootf g{ucose
1. Plasma glucose levels:
A. Fasting level = 6s-uo mg/dl (3.6-6.1 mmol/L)
B. One hour after carbohydrate meal = 120-150 mgfdl (6.7-
8.3 mmol/L).
C. Two hours after carbohydrate meal (PP): 65-140 mg/dl
(3.6-7.8 mmol/L).
Note: For glucose 1 millimole/L (mmoi/L) = 18 mg/dl.

II. Sources of blood glucose:


A. Dietary carbohydrate: absorbed glucose following digestion of
carbohydrate e.g. starch.
B. Liver glycogen: through glycogenolysis. Lber glycogen can
supply body with glucose for about 18 hours of fasting.
C. Amino acids and other metabolites: (gluconeogenesis):
liver and kidney can convert these substrates into glucose.

III.Regulation of blood glucose level:


A. Blood glucose. level is maintained within narrow range 65-150
mg/dl. This is because:
1. Hypoglycemia (low blood glucose level) causes impairment of
cerebral function, as brain is very dependent on blood glucose
for its energy supply.
Carbohydrate metabolism 77

2. Hyperglycemia (high r lood glucose level) can also cause


cerebral dysfunction by its effect on extra cellular osmolality
(discussed lat e r).
3. Reg ul a ti o n o f blood g lu cose leve l can be a c hieved hy hormonal,
hepa t ic and r e na l mechanisms.

B. H ormonal r e gul a tion:

t Growth hormone

I. In s ulin is a hormone secreted by beta cells of isl e ts of


Langerhans of pancreas (see chap t e r of hormone s). It is t h e only
h o rmon e w hi ch reduces blood g lu cose level through :
a) Tr a n sfe r of glucose i nside the ce lls .
b) S timul at i o n of glucose oxidatio n.
c) S timul at ion of glycoge n s torage (g lyco ge n es is).
d) Inhibiti o n of g lycogen breakdown (g lycoge no lys is).
c) I nh i b it ion of co nvers ion of amino acids and other
m e tabolite s into glucose (gluconeogenesis).
f) St im ulatio n of conversion of glucose into fat (lipogenesis).
2. Glu cago n : is a hormone that secreted by a lph a cells of islets of
Lange rh ans of pancrea s . It tends to increase blood glucose level
through:
a) St imulati on of g lycogen breakdown (g lycogenolysis): by
s timulatin g adeny lat e cyc la se enzyme.
b) St i m ul ation of g lu co neoge nes is .
3. Catecholamin es { e pin e phrin e a nd nor e pinephr·in e ):
They are secreted from s uprarena l m edu ll a . T hey t e nd to
increa se blood glucose leve l even if th er e is h yperg lyce mia as in
Oraby's Illustrated reviews of biochemistry 78

case of stress. They increase blood glucose level through


stimulation of glycogenolysis.
4. Glucocorticoids as cortisol: They are a group of steroid
hormones secreted by suprarenal cortex. They tend to increase
blood glucose level through stimulation of gluconeogenesis.
5. Growth hormone: It is a hormone secreted from anterior
pituitary gland. It antagonizes insulin hormone and tends to
increase blood glucose level through:
a) Inhibition of glucose uptake by cells.
b) Blocks the insulin action at cell membranes.

C. Hepatic regulation (role of liver): Liver plays a very


important role in keeping blood glucose level within range. Simply
during fasting, liver adds glucose to the blood (glycogenolysis).
After carbohydrate meal, it takes up about 6o% of the glucose load
(glycogenesis).
1. During fasting:
a) Liver adds glucose to blood by glycogenolysis and
gluconeogenesis.
b) It can convert fatty acids (acetyl CoA) released from adipose
tissue to ketone bodies, which can be used by other tissues,
including brain when glucose is in short supply.
2. After carbohydrate meal: Glucose is transported in portal
blood to the liver.
a) About 40% passes to the blood stimulating insulin secretion
and taken up by brain, muscles, adipose tissue and liver.
b) The remaining 6o% of glucose is taken up by liver, and
converted into glucose-6-phosphate, by glucokinase
enzyme:
1) This enzyme has low affinity for glucose relative to
hexokinase found in most tissues.
2) Glucokinase is stimulated (induced) by insulin
secreted in response to hyperglycemia. For this reason,
less glucose is taken up by liver during fasting.
3) Glucose-6-phosphate will undergo one of the following
fate in the liver:
)lo Conversion to glycogen (glycogenesis) which is
stimulated J;>y insulin.
)lo Conversion to fatty acids (lipogenesis). It is also

stimulated by insulin.
Carbohydrate metabolism 79

IUISIIII
Role of liver
in J:epl.ation
of blood glucose

ADIPOII IISSUI

D. Renal regulation: (role of kidney):


1. Circulating blood glucose is filtered in glomerular filtrate and
reabsorbed again by certain tubular enzymes. This saves blood
glucose from loss in urine .
2. If blood glucose level exceeds certain limits (average 180 mg/dl),
glucose will increase in glomerular filtrate and exceeds the
capacity of tubular enzymes to reabsorb it. Thus glucose appears
in urine (glycosuria). This limit is called renal threshold for
glucose reabsorption.

Definition of renal threshold for glucose reabsorption: It


is the blood glucose level above which glucose appears in urine.
(Average 180 mg/dl).

3. Low renal threshold: Where glucose appears in urine even


when blood glucose level is low (may be just 100 mg/dl). This
occurs in:
a) Normally in some persons due to defective tubular enzymes for
glucose reabsorption (diabetes iimocence).
b) In 20% of pregnant females.
4. High renal Threshold: Where glucose appears in urine in
concentration above the average "renal threshold" (which may
reach 220 mg/dl or more). This occurs in:
a) Elderly people due to reduced glomerular filtration rate.
b) In cases of diabetes associated with renal damage.
Oraby's illustrated reviews of biochemistry 80

Variations in blood glucose·


1fypog{ycemia
1. Definition:
A. It is the decrease of blood glucose concentration below normal
fasting average concentration: less than 65 mg/dl.
Symptoms of hypoglycemia appear if blood glucose
concentration becomes less than45 mg/dl.

11. Effect of hypoglycemia:


A. Hypoglycemia causes cerebral dysfunction (as brain and
nervous tissue are dependent on glucose as a source of
energy).
B. If hypoglycemia is severe and prolonged, it causes coma
(hypoglycemic coma) and then death.

III.Mechanism that corrects hypoglycemia: Hypoglycemia


activates:
A. a. Cells of islets of Langerhans-. Glucagon-. Glycogenolysis
.,. t Blood glucose.
B. Receptors in hypothalamus: This stimulates:
I. Secretion of epinephrine (mediated by autonomic nervous system)
.,. t Glycogenolysis .,. t Blood LOW BLOOD QWC09E

glucose.
2. Secretion of anterior pituitary
hormones:
a) Growth hormone: insulin
antagonist.
b) ACTH .,. Stimulation of
suprarenal cortex .,.
Glucocorticoids .,.
t Gluconeogenesis .,. t
Blood glucose.
Note:
I) Glucagon and epinephrine
Gluconeo enesis
are most important in the
acute, short-term regulation of blood glucose levels.
Carbohydrate metabolism 81

2) Glucocorticoids and growth hormone play a role in long-


term regulation of blood glucose levels.

IV.Symptoms of hypoglycemia:

J. Glucose supply to tbe brain Adrenergic symptoms

(I
.:. '
'\ ,,
' - - SWatina

Symptoms of hypoglycemia

A. Adrenergic symptoms (that is, symptoms mediated by elevated


epinephrine) + Anxiety, palpitation, tremors and sweating and
hunger.
B. Symptoms due to impaired glucose supply to the brain +
Impairment of brain function + Headache, confusion, slurred
speech, coma and death.

v. Types of hypoglycemia: It may be divided into 2 types, fasting


and stimulative.
A. Fasting hypoglycemia:
1. It is the inability to maintain normal glucose concentration in
the fasting state.
2. It is. usually due to organ diseases.
3. Causes:
a) Pancreatic disease: disorders affecting J3-cells of islets of
Langerhans e.g. insulinoma (=Pancreatic J3 cell tumor) +
tt insulin secretion.
b) Liver diseases: leads to .1.· glycogenolysis and .J,
gluconeogenesis:
1) Hepatocellular damage e.g. hepatic carcinoma
2) Glycogen storage diseases.
3) Prolonged starvation: due to depletion of liver
glycogen.
Oraby's Illustrated reviews of biochemistry 82

c) Adrenocortical diseases: -t lead to decreased secretion of


epinephrine ( J, glycogenolysis) and glucocorticoids ( J,
gluconeogenesis).

B. Stimulative (reactive) hypoglycemia:


1. It occurs due to some stimuli usually after taking a meal.
2. Causes:
a) Drugs and poisons:
1) Therapeutic insulin administration: over dosage of
insulin during treatment of diabetes can lead to
hypoglycemia.
2) Over dosage of sulphonylurea: it is an oral
hypoglycemic drug that stimulates ~-cells to produce
insulin.
3) Liver poisons: as chloroform and phosphorus.
4) Alcohol (ethanol) ingestion:
> Excessive alcohol ingestion is a common cause of
hypoglycemia.
>Metabolism of alcohol -t t NADH+H+ levels in the
liver -t Inhibits gluconeogenesis -t Hypoglycemia.

b) Postgastrectomyz i.e. after partial removal of stomach.


Glucose is absorbed rapidly which leads to stimulation of
excessive insulin secretion.

c) Leucine hypersensitivity of infancy and childhood:


Leucine amino acid in the diet stimulates ~-cells to secrete
insulin. In sensitive infants, there is excessive insulin release.

d) Inborn errors of metabolism: as in:


1) Galactosemia: due to deficiency of galactose-1-
phosphate uridyl transferase.
2) Hereditary fructose intolerance: due to deficiency of
aldolase B enzyme -t Inhibition of phosphorylase -t
Inhibition of glycogenolysis.

·.·~
,,.
Carbohydrate metabolism 83

Types and causes of hypoglycemia:

Types Organ or cause Examples


Fasting Pancreas lnsulinoma.
hypoglycemia Other endocrine Adrenocortical hypofunction.
alands
Liver Prolonged starvation.
Hepatocellular damage.
Glyco~ten storue diseases.
Stimulative Drugs and •dose of insulin or
Hypoglycemia poisons •dose of sulphonylurea.
Liver poisons: chloroform,
Alcohol (ethanol).
Postgastrectomy
Leucine
hypersensitivity
Inborn errors of • Galactosemia
metabolism • Hereditary fructose
intolerance.

1fyperg[ycemia
1. Definition:
It is the rise of blood glucose above normal average level.

11. Causes:
I. Diabetes mellitus: Most common cause (discussed later).
2. In patients receiving intravenous fluid containing glucose.
3. Temporarily in severe stress.
4. After cerebro-vascular accidents.
5. Disturbance in hyperglycaemic hormones.

tDia6etes me{{itus
1. Definition:
A. It is an endocrine disease caused by a relative or absolute
deficiency of insulin hormone.
B. It is characterized by a chronic hyperglycemia.
C. Glycosuria (presence of glucose in urine) is usually present.

Note: The word DIABETES means increase urine volume.!


Oraby's illustrated reviews of biochemistry 84

II. Types of diabetes: 2 Types; insulin dependent and non-


insulin dependent diabetes mellitus.

Comparison of two types of diabetes mellitus


Type1 Type2
Insulin-dependent Non-insulin-dependent
diabetes mellitus diabetes mellitus
(IDDM) (NIDDM)
Synonym (other names) juvenile-onset diabetes adult-onset diabetes
Ageofonset Usually during childhood or Frequently after age 35
puberty (young) (old).
Nutritional status at Frequently · undernourished Obesity usually present
time of onset of disease (thin)
Prevalence 10-2096 of diagnosed So-go% of diagnosed
diabetics diabetics
Genetic predisposition Moderate Very strong
Defect or deficiency jl-cells destruction (no Inability of jl-cells to produce
insulin). appropriate quantities of
insulin or insulin resistance.
Ketosis Common Rare
Plasma insulin Low to absent Normal to high
Acute complications Ketoacidosis Hyperosmolar coma
Oral hypoglycemic No response Responsive
drugs
·Treatment with insulin Always necessary usually not required

Treatment by oral
hypoglycemic

Young Old
I
Thin Obese '..J~
Strong
~
LessgenetJc
genetic
backgroun
background

10-20% 80-90%

Low Insulin
secretion

ketoslele ketosis Ia
common less common

Type1 Type2
(IDDM) (NIDDM)
----~--~--------~------------------~· ~
Types of diabetes mellitus. "'''
., .
Carbohydrate metabolism 85

A. Insulin-dependent (type I)

diabetes mellitus (IDDMl: This Acute


streu
"Honeymoon•
type is less common (10-2096) and
characterized by an absolute ! JMHI!od Clinical
lhroshold

deficiency of insulin caused by:


!
1) Destruction of p-cells of the
pancreas. I
2) This destruction may be due to 14
viral infection or formation of
antibodies against p cells.
An ecute 1tren promotee eplnopttrlno
• Patients of this type are usually ucmton, which clecteun lhe releae
of Insulin from daplotocl jkolta,
)lo young and prec1p1t11t1ng • lUdden onset of
ctlnlcal
)lo develop ketosis.
Insulin secretory capacity during
B. Non-Insulin dependent (type onset of diabetes.

Ill diabetes mellitus CNIDDMl: This type is the most


common form of the disease (So-go%) and characterized by a
relative deficiency of insulin caused by:
I) Dysfunction of p-cells of the pancreas.
2) Resistance to insulin action at cellular level. This may
explain why some patients of NIDDM show normal or even
elevated plasma insulin.
• Patients of this type are usually
)o. Old and

)lo Obese at the onset of diabetes.

)lo Strong genetic background

III.Biochemical disturbance of diabetes mellitus: insulin


deficiency causes disturbance in carbohydrate, lipids, protein,
vitamins and minerals metabolism.
A. CarbOhydrate metabolism: insulin deficiency leads to
decrease glucose uptake by tissues, J. glucose oxidation, t
gluconeogenesis and t Glycogenolysis. This leads to:
I. .1. Intracellular glucose • hunger pain • Polyphagia
(excessive eating).
2. t Blood glucose (hyperglycemia), this causes t Pla1Qla
osmolality • dehydration:
a) Dehydration of brain cells • Hyperglycemic, hyperosmolal
coma.
Oraby's illustrated reviews of biochemistry 86

b) Dehydration of body cells ~ Sense of thirst -+ Excessive


drinking (polydepsia).
c) Symptoms and sign of dehydration.
3. Glycosuria: If blood glucose level exceeds renal threshold -+
Glucose appears in urine (glycosuria). This will leads to t
osmotic diuresis that causes:
a) Excessive and frequent urination (polyurea).
b) Loss of water soluble vitamins e.g. 81.
c) Loss of minerals e.g. Na• and K•.

B. Protein metabolism: insulin deficiency leads to increased


protein breakdown and stimulation of gluconeogenesis. i.e.
conversion of amino acids to glucose. This results in :
1. Phosphate release -+ hyperphosphatemia.
2. Excessive breakdown of tissue proteins causing muscle
wasting.
3. Decreased antibody formation causing low resistance and
infection.
4. Poor healing of wounds.

C. Lipid metabolism: Insulin deficiency leads to excessive


lipolysis in adipose tissue -+ mobilization of free fatty acids and
glycerol to the blood -+ Then to the liver and other tissues. This
leads to:
1. Loss of weight.
2. Hyperlipidemia -+ Atherosclerosis.
3. Fatty liver (Re-estrification of fatty acids again with glycerol to
form triacylglycerol in liver).
4. Excessive ketone bodies formation -+ Ketonemia -+ Ketosis. This
leads to:
a) Coma: ketotic coma.
b) Hyperkalemia.

D. Microangiopathy:
1. It is a degeneration that affects small blood vessels as
capillaries especially those .of the kidneys and retina of the
eyes.
2. Thus two of common chronic complications of diabetes
mellitus are renal failure and blindness.
I) Insulin I
. .
Minerals Uplds
t lm~l
lml~ I· +
Loss ofwelght &
hypertlpldemla
...

;~71
~1--1
111~1 ~

I I OsmoCJc c1Uesl8 I I Poly~!t.P.~!JI


I
J!! t
I
{ I I
Loss of water

iu I ·Polyurea
+
II
Biochemical disturbances of diabetes mellitus
Oraby's illustrated reviews of biochemistry 88

IV .Diagnosis of diabetes mellitus:


Symptoms:
A. If a patient has symptoms of 1- Fasting plasma glucose.
diabetes mellitus, the following tests 2- Postprandial plasma glucose.
No symptoms:
may be done: 1- OGTT
~--------------------~-----~----------~
1. Measurement of fasting plasma glucose level (8-12
hours after last meal):
a) If concentration is 65-110 mgfdl -+ Normal blood glucose.
b) If concentration is 110-126 mg/dl -+ Impaired glucose
utilization.
c) If concentration is > 126 mg/dl -+ Diabetes mellitus.
2. Measurement of two-hours postprandial plasma
glucose level: (2 hours after last meal):
a) If concentration is 65-140 mg/dl-+ Normal blood glucose.
b) If concentration is 140-200 mg/dl-+Impaired glucose
utilization.
c) If concentration is > 200 mg/dl -+ Diabetes mellitus.

Glucose concentration (mg/dl)


Fasting Two hours after last
meal
Normal 65-110 mx/dl 65-140 mx/dl
Impaired glucose 110-126 mg/dl 140-200 mg/dl
tolerance
Diabetes mellitus More than 126 More than 200
0
mf!./dl
. 0
mg/dl 0
Summary of diagnostic cr1ter1a for patients w1th symptoms 0

of diabetes mellitus (WHO criteria).

B. If patient has no symptoms: Oral glucose tolerance


test (OGTT) is done:
1. Indication of the test: There are only two indications for
performing OGTT:
a) P·eople with no or mild symptoms of diabetes mellitus.
b) To determine the renal threshold for glucose.
2. Procedure:
a) Fasting plasma sample is taken after overnight fast (8-12
hours).
b) Then patient is given 75 grams glucose orally.
c) Plasma and urine glucose concentrations are determined in
fasting and at 30 ~inutes intervals for the next 3 hours after
glucose ingestion. Then draw a curve.
3. Explanation of normal glucose tolerance curve:
a) Fasting level: 65-110 mg/dl.
Carbohydrate metabolism 89

b) The plasma glucose level rises and reaches the maximum in


one hour (120-150 mg/dl). Normally the maximum value
equals 1.5 fasting value. The ascending limb of the curve
represents glucose absorption.
Thus any cause impairing glucose absorption as diarrhea will
make the glucose level reaches the maximum in much slowe~
rate (more than one hour).

c) The plasma glucose returns to fasting level after 2


hours:
1) The descending limb represents glucose
utilization by the tissues in response to insulin
secretion. In diabetes mellitus, glucose returns to
fasting level in much slower rate (more than 2 hours).
2) Insulin secretion continues till the plasma glucose level
becomes less than normal fasting level. Then insulin
secretion stops and plasma glucose level returns once
more to normal fasting level. This is called
hypoglycemic response or insulin overshoot. The
return to normal level is due to secretion of glucagon and
epinephrine in response to low plasma glucose level.

d) Normally, all urine samples contain no glucose as all


plasma glucose levels are below the normal threshold.

4. WHO criteria for diagnosis of diabetes mellitus using


oral glucose tolerance test :
a) fasting plasma glucose is greater than 126 mg/dl (7 mmol/L) .
b) At least, one of the intermediate (30, 6o, 90 min) plasma
specimens has P,lasma glucose greater than 200 mg/dl.
c) At any urine specimen, if the rate of glomerular filtration of
glucose exceeds that of tubular reabsorption in the kidney
(renal threshold), glucose will appear in urine.

s. Glucose tolerance curve of renal glycosuria:


a) The curve is normal, indicating normal glucose utilization
and no insulin deficiency.
Oraby's illustrated reviews of biochemistry 90

b) Abnormalities lie in appearance of glucose in some or all


urine specimen.

6. Hypoglycemic glucose tolerance· curve: Fasting level is

.
below normal, maximum rise is below normal and returns to
fasting level are very rapid.

Diabetic--.
-
i'
Q
.s
300 i...
l
300

.
•"•'""' "''''"•••••••
, . - Renal thrtshold ......
1 200 , . - Renalttlrwllold
0 ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
:Q
.5 .5

I
6
j
0+-----~----,-----~----r-
0 1 2 3 4 Hour• 0 1 2 3 4 Houra
Urine Urine
glucose 0 0 0 0 0 glucose 0 + ++ +++ ++

Blood glucose levels and glucose In urine Blood glucose levels and glucose In urine
after Ingestion of glucose In normal Individuals.
c..6y
after Ingestion of glucose In diabetic Individuals•
.,_,

i' ! aoo-
-
Cl
.s
300
.[
I 200 ••••••••••••••• c..~~-~~ ..... I 200· ••••••••••••••• c..~~·.~~---··
.5 .5 Hypoglycemia
§ 100
I
'
10G-
:s
6
O+-----T-----~----~----r-
0
0
-
0 1 2 3 4 Houra 0 1 2 a 4 Houra
Urine Urfne
glucose 0 + ++ 0 0 glucose 0 0 0 0 0

Blood glucose levels and glucose In urine Blood glucose levels and glucose In urine
after Ingestion of glucose In renal glycosuria after Ingestion of glucose In hypoglycemic
individuals. Individuals.
Carbohydrate metabolism 91

C. Investigations for follow up of diabetes mellitus:


1. Glucose in urine (glycosuria):
a) Glucose appears in urine if blood glucose level exceeds renal
threshold (180 mg/dl).
b) Glycosuria is not used for diagnosis of diabetes
mellitus, as there are other causes of glycosuria.
c) Glycosuria is used rather for follow up (monitoring) of
effectiveness of treatment of diabetes.
2. Glycated proteins: all proteins including hemoglobin and
albumin undergo slow, non-enzymatic, covalent formation of
glycated protein (protein + glucose). The rate of formation of
such glycoprotein is related to the concentration of glucose over
the life span of that protein.
a) Glycated hemoglobin: (formerly named glycosylated
hemoglobin):
I) Hemoglobin A is the major hemoglobin in adults(97%) .
2) Normally, about s-8% of hemoglobin A reacts non-
enzymatically with glucose to form a derivative known
as glycated hemoglobin or HBAte. This glycated
hemoglobin remains over the life span of RBCs (120
days).
3) The concentration of glycated hemoglobin is directly
proportional to the glucose level over the life span of
RBCs.
4) In diabetes mellitus with uncontrolled hyperglycemia,
glycated hemoglobin will be higher than normal (may
reach 12% or more of the total hemoglobin A).
5) Importance of the test: This test is used as an index
of diabetic control over 2-3 months. It correlates with
the mean plasma glucose concentration during this
period. The higher the percentage, the poorer the mean
diabetic control.
b) Glycated albumin (fructosamine):
I) Plasma albumin has shorter life span (about 3 weeks)
than hemoglobin (2 months).
2) Albumin is also glycated non-enzymatically and can be
measured as fructosamine.
3) Importance of the test: This test is used as an index
of diabetic control over 2-3 weeks (life span of albumin).
Oraby's illustrated reviews of biochemistry 92

This is very useful in short-term evaluation of glucose


control (2 weeks) as in pregnancy.
3. Microalbuminuria:
a) Normally, proteins (mostly albumin) are excreted in urine in
trace amounts (less than 20-30 mg/L).
b) Albuminuria means excretion of protein in amount more than
mg/L.
200
c) Excretion of very small amount of protein or albumin (30-200
mg/L) is called microalbumnuria.
I) It indicates early affection of kidney as in diabetes
mellitus.
2) It cannot be detected by ordinary me~hods (as heat
coagulation test) and needs special techniques for its
detection.

Summary of investigations for diabetes mellitus


I
I
For diagnosis For follow up
I 1· Glucose in urine (glycosuria)
I 2· Glycated proteins:
If there are symptoms: a- Glycated hemoglobin
1· Measurement of fasting plasma glucose level. b- Fructosamine
2· Measurement of 2 hours PP plasma glucose. 3· Microalbuminuria

If there is no symptoms
1· OGTT

V. Coma in diabetes mellitus: Three types of coma may result in


advanced uncontrolled diabetes. These are:
A. Ketotic coma: due to acidosis (ketosis).
B. Hyperglycemic. hyperosmolar. nonketotic coma:
due to hyperglycemia, increased osmolality and dehydration of
brain cells. Here, there is neither ketosis nor fall in blood pH.
C. Lactic acidosis: due to hyperlactatemia. This type may occur
in some patients who receive an oral hypoglycemic drug called:
Phenformin (cidophage).
Note: Insulin increases the transfer of potassium and
inorganic phosphate into cells. In case of treatment of
diabetic coma with intravenous insulin and glucose, it may
be fatal if potassium is not given at the same time due to
hypokalemia ,. Cardiac affection.
Carbohydrate metabolism 93

v. Types ofdiabetes:
A. Diabetes mellitus: caused by defective insulin action.
B. Diabetes insipidus: hereditary disease caused by defective
action of antidiuretic hormone.
c. Diabetes innocence (renal diabetes): caused by low renal
threshold for glucose reabsorption.
D. Bronze diabetes: It is a hereditary disease caused by excessive
absorption of iron and its precipitation in tissues as :
I. Skin: causing its bronze discoloration.
2. Pancreas: causing diabetes mellitus.
3. Liver: causing hepatic cirrhosis.

VII. Glycosuria:
A. Definition: It is the presence of glucose in urine in amount
detectable by ordinary methods.

B. Causes (types):
I. Diabetes mellitus: It is the most common cause of
glycosuria. It accounts about go% of all cases of glycosuria.
2. Excess excretion of diabetogenic hormones: as growth
hormone, glucocorticoids, epinephrine and glucagon.
3. Diabetes innocence (renal glycosuria): due to abnormal low
renal threshold for glucose absorption. It may be inherited as an
autosomal dominate trait.
4. Pregnancy glycosuria:
a) Occurs in 20% of all pregnancies.
b) It is due to increase of glomerular filtration rate by about so%
during pregnancy.

C. Detection of glycosuria:
1. Glucose oxidase method:
It is a specific test, because the enzyme does not react except with
glucose. This is d~ne by urine strips containing this enzyme.
l. Benedict' • test:
Benedict's reagent gives colored precipitate with urine contains
glucose. It is non-specific semi-quantitative test because it gives
positive results with other substance.s than glucose as vitamin c.
Summary of Carbohydrate pathways

Glycolysis Pyruvate to Krebs' cycle Pentose PP Uronic acid Glycogenesis Glycogenolysis Gluconeo-
Acetyl CoA pathway genesis
Glucose to Pyruvate to Acetyl CoA to is a process is a process ' Synthesis of Breakdown of Formation of
1 Definition
that generates that generates glucose from non
pyruvate or
lactate
Acetyl CoA H20, C02 and
Energy NADPH and
pentoses
Iglucuronic acid
glycogen glycogen
carbohydrate
sources

Location Cytosol Mitochondria Mitochondria Cytosol


Liver, RBCs ...
Cytosol
Liver
Cytosol
liver& muscle
ICytosol
liver& muscle
Cytosol & mito
Liver& kidney
Steps See See See See I See See See See

Energy No 0 2:2 ATP


0 2:6 or8 ATP
3ATP 112 ATP NO energy I NO en_ergy NO energy NO energy Consume
energy
Functions Energy El)ergy • Energy Production of: Production of: Maintains blood glucose Maintains
DAHP -.Fat • Catabolic • Pentoses Glucuronic concentration in short term blood glucose
2,3 BPG functions • NAOPH+H. acid fasting concentration
3 p glyc-.serine
Pyruv +alanine
• Anabolic ......... .......... in long term
Functions fasting
Glucokinase Pyruvate Citrate synthase Gluocose -6- UDP glucose Glycogen Phosphorylase G-6-phosphatase
Key enzymes lsocitrate
Hexokinase dehydrogenase phosphate dehydrogenase synthase F 1,6
dehydrogenase bisphosphatase
PFK dehydrogenase
a ketoglutarate PC
PK dehydrogenase PEPKKinase
Regulation Hormonal Phosphorylation ATP, NADH+H• NADP·, insulin - Phosphorylation Glucocorticoids
Energy dephosphoryla- Acetyl CoA dephosphoryla-tion Insulin
tion long acyl CoA Glucagon
Substrate
Ojseases PK-HA - - Favism Essential Von Gierk's disease -
HK-HA pentosuria
Lactic acidosis
DAHP= Orhydroxy acetone phosphate- 2,3 BPG = 2,3 B1sphosphoglycerate- 3 p gly = 3 phosphoglycerate- PFK = Phosphofructokinase- PK = Pyruvate
kinase- HA= Hemolytic anemia- HK= hexokinase- PC= Pyruvate carboxylase, PEPK kinase= Phosphoenol pyruvate carboxy kinase

Professor Said Ora by


Chapter 3 Lipids ~eta6o[ism

I. INTRODUCTION :

On average , an adul t human eats about 100- Triacylglycerols (99%)

150 grams lipids per day. The main lipids in


diet are triacylglycerols, TG (99%). Diet
also contai ns some phospholipid s,
cho le st erol and fat so lubl e vitamins.

11. IMPORTANCE OF LIPIDS IN DIET: Vllamln s A.D. E,K

A. Lipids a re one of the main sources Sources of dietary lipids.

of energy in the body .


B. Lipids supp ly th e body with essential
fat ty acids.
C . Lipids supp ly the body with fat
soluble vi t amin s.
Tll•cylglycel ol (TGI
D. Lip ids make diet palatab l e . Ploo•.phohplds(PLI
Glvcohphls (GLI
Cholottorol esters I

Ill. DIGESTION OF LIPIDS:


A. Dig estion of triacylglycerols : SMALL •
INTESTINES :
Triacylglycerols are digested by a
group of enzymes . These are lingual, ... I
I

gastric, pancreatic and intestinal I


Bile snll s em ulsify lipids
I

lipase enzymes. I
I

'+'
1. Lingual lipase : TO 8LOOO Llpases,
choles1eryl esterase
a) Secreted by Ebner 's glands on and phosphollpases
digest dietary lipi ds
the dorsal sur face of the I
I
I
tongue . '+'
Frl!e tally acid~
b) Because food remains for a I ••••• • • • • •• - • 2·Monoacylglyccrol
' Cholesterol
'
sho rt time in the mouth, '

digestion of triacylglycerols by Remaining


I ••••••• - - - -- pieces of
lingual lipase is minimal. 0

'
Pl and GL

2. Ga s tric lip ase :


a) Optimum pH for gas tri c lipase
Oigeston of lipid s.
is 7 . Thus it cannot act in adult
stomac h (pH: 1-2) .
b) Gastric lipase may be of value in infants stomach (pH : 5). It acts on
milk fats.
-95-
Oraby's illustrated reviews of biochemistry 96

3. Pancreatic lipase:
a) It is the most important lipase in digestion of triacylglycerols.
b) It attacks the primary ester bonds of TG (position 1 & 3),
hydrolyzing them Into fatty acids and 2-monoacylglycerols.
c) The resulting 2-monoacylglycerols will undergo:
1) 72% are absorbed as such.
2) 28% are converted into 1-monoacylglycerols by isomerase
enzyme which are then :
i- Absorbed as 1-monoacylglycerols (6%)
ii- Hydrolyzed by pancreatic lipase into glycerol and fatty
acids (22%) which are then absorbed.
d) Pancreatic lipase Is secreted as Inactive enzyme:
1) Its secretion is stimulated by r - - - - - - -- - - - - - - - ,
0
pancreozymin hormone (secreted o 1c~-o-c-R,
II2'
Rz·C·O·CH 0
by the duodenum) and vagus 3CH2 -0-C-R3
nerve stimulation. Trt=ylglycerol

P•nc::l~
2) It is activated in the duodenum by
bile salts, calcium
colipase (protein produced by the
ions and
f ~:,~~~~d
'---=:.!llp~·=-·!J c 13)
pancreas). 0 CH20H

3) The presence of emulsifying Rz·C·O·CH


' 20H
CH
agents as bile salts and 2-Monoacylglycerol

phospholipids is important for Digestion ot trlacytglycorols by


p•ncreatlc lip•••·
action of pancreatic lipase.
Emulsification means breakdown of large fat globules into small
ones. This increases the surface area of lipids exposed to
lipase enzyme.
4. Intestinal lipase:
a) It acts on 1-monoacylglycerols converting them Into glycerol and
free fatty acids.

Vagal Stimulation

D Bile
salta
I ~

Set:,.tlon end At:tlvetlon of Pent:,..tlt: lip•••·


Lipids metabolism 97

Tho end products of trlacylglycerols digestion are:


• 72%: 2-monoacylglycerols + Fatty acids.
• 6% : 1-monoacylglycerols.
• 22%: Glycerol and fatty acids.

B. Digestion of cholesterol and tributyrin:


1. Cholesterol itself undergoes no digestion and absorbed
Butyncodd
as such.
2. Cholesteryl esters are digested
cholesterol esterase enzyme into cholesterol and fatty
acids.
3. Cholesterol esterase enzyme can also act on tributyrin
by pancreatic

t Butyric acid

Butyric acid

Tributyrin .. J''
'CI
(triacylglycerols containing 3 butyric acids) hydrolyzing
them into glycerol and 3 bulyric acid molecules. Milk is rich in tributyrin.

C. Digestion of phospholipids:
1. Phospholipids may be absorbed as
such or digested by phospholipase
enzymes (A1, A2 (B), C and D) 0II
2. They act on phospholipids R-C-o
hydrolyzing them into fatty acids,
glycerol, phosphate and
Cholesteryl
nitrogenous bases.
esterase

IV. ABSORPTION OF LIPIDS:


A. Mechanism:
1. The end products of lipids
digestion are monoacylglycerols,
fatty acids [short chains & long
chains], glycerol, phospholipids, HO

and cholesterol. They are absorbed


from jejunum and Ileum. Digestion of cholesteryl ester.
2. Short chain fatty
Phospholipase A1
acids (less than 12
carbons) and ~ Phospholipase A2 (B)
[ Saturated fatly acid~
glycerol are water- 1-------___;::. [un~s-:atu~r-.-ate-:d~fa-:::-!!y-a-.cl~d)
soluble and pass via
portal circulation to
the liver.
Phospholipase C Phospholipase 0
3. Other lipids are
water insoluble. Digestion of phospholipids.

They combine with bile salts to form a water-soluble complex called


micelles, which enter the mucosal cells.
Oraby's illustrated reviews of biochemistry 98

4. Bile salts are reabsorbed to the liver again (enterohepatlc-


clrculatlon).
5. Long chain fatty acids are activated in the mucosal cells and combine
with mono & diacylglycerols to form triacylglycerols again.
6. Triacylglycerols, phospholipids and cholesterol are bound to a protein
called apolipoprotein B4o to form chylomicrons which enter the
circulation through lymphatic vessels.
7. In the blood; chylomicrons are bound with other 2 proteins
(apolipoproteins E & C).
8. Chylomicrons will be metabolized as discussed later.

lalesllaal eells Lumea

Glycerol + - - - + - Glycerol
Portal circulation

Short chllln FA Short chain FA

Bile salts BILE SALTS

Honoacylglyce~ ~
....
+
Honoacylglycerola
Triacylglycerols ~ ·~~ n
PI
+

.•. ·• .•. , ...••••• Long chain FA~ ~ Long chain FA

(~ HYLO HI C R0 Ns·'~gcholeatero~
~ +
PI
/ ~ Cholesterol
• ~
I +
··· .....•..•.... --··-Phospholipids Phospholipids

a
Protein

Systlmic circulation

Digestion of lipids.

B. Errors of lipids digestion and absorption:


1. Steatorrhoea :
a) Definition: It is a condition in which fat content of the stool is
abnormally increased. Normally it is less than 5 grams per day.
b) Causes: Steatorrhoea results from deficiency of any factor
essential for digestion or absorption of lipids as pancreatic lipase,
bile salts or healthy intestinal mucosa:
99
Lipids metabolism

1) Deficiency of pancreatic lipase :


i- It is due to pancreatic duct obstruction, pancreatitis
(inflammation of pancreas) or Zollinger Ellison disease
(where the high acid content of stomach enters the
duodenum and Inactivates lipase enzyme.
II- The fat in stool is Intestine
undigested. There
Dietary lipids
is no loss of fat-
soluble vitamins
because vitamins
need no digestion.
2) Deficiency of bile
salts :
i- It occurs due to
bile duct
obstruction (by
stone or tumor) or
liver disease (as in cirrhosis).
ii- The fat in stool is digested and there is loss of fat soluble
vitamin (as they need bile salts for absorption).
3) Defective cells of Intestinal mucosa.
2. Chyluria (milky urine):
a) It is the presence of fat (chylomlcrons) in urine after fatty meal.
b) It is due to abnormal connection between the lymphatic drainage of
the intestine and the urinary system e.g. as in elephantiasis.

V. FATE OF ABSORBED LIPIDS:


A. After fatty meal, plasma shows a milky appearance. This is due to
venous blood contains excess chylomicrons after absorption.
1. Excel?s chylomlcrons stimulate mast cells to produce heparin. Heparin
then stimulates the lining epithelium of blood vessels of heart, lungs,
spleen and adipose tissue to produce an enzyme called: lipoprotein
lipase (plasma clearing factor).
2. Lipoprotein lipase enzyme (after being activated by a protein called
apolipoproteln C II) will act on trlacylglycerols of chylomlcrons,
converting them Into glycerol and free fatty acids.

..
Triacylg~cerols' \
rUpoproteln Dpase) ~: :Glycerol ~Fatty acids
. ApoCII ·

B. Glycerol and fatty acids are taken up by different tissues for the following
fate:
Oraby's illustrated reviews of bio~hemistry 100

1. Formation of depot fat (adipose tissue).


a) Adipose tissue is formed mainly of triacylglycerols.
b) It is present in fat cells of adipose tissue.

2. Oxidation for production of energy:

3. Glucose formation by gluconeogenesis:


a) Glycerol --. Glucose.

4. Synthesis of biologically active compounds: e.g. different steroids


and eicosanoids (prostaglandins, prostacyclin, thromboxa-nes and
leuckotrienes).

5. Synthesis of tissue fats (structural cellular fats): They include


mainly phospholipids and cholesteryl esters.

Lungs

0 Spleen
ApoUpoproteln C II

-------
Heart
Blood vessels of

t HEPARIN
Lipoprotein lipase J

Intestine
t Mast Cells

-f.-----•
,.. t,... 0
.
.·chylomlcrons: - - -... Glycerol & FFA--+
' ' ' ' ' '
-----------------------------------------------------------------~
1\ -.}!;t~•
Fate of absorbed chylomlcrons. "'
Upids metabolism 101

St'f'OCJUlfitE jig((]) 9dOfBI£IZ)f.t'f'ION OP £IlPl(J)S


I. Types of body lipids: Body lipids are of 4 types; tissue lipids, adipose
tissue (depot fat), plasma lipoproteins and bone marrow lipids.
A. Tissue lipids:
1. These lipids enter in the structure of body cells as cell membrane and
mitochondria.
2. Tissue lipids are never oxidized to give energy.
B. Adipose tissue (depot fat): It is of 2 types white and brown.
1. White adipose tissue:
a) Composition:
1) Triacylglycerols: main content that contain saturated and
unsaturated fatty acids. This makes depot fat in a fluid state at
body temperature.
2) Little phospholipids and cholesterol.
b) Site:
1) Under skin (subcutaneous fat) and in the breast.
2) Around Important organs e.g. kidney.
3) In the omentum and mesentry.
c) Sources:
1) Abs'brbed fat.
2) Carbohydrate (by lipogenesis).
d) Functions: depot fat Is Important for:
1) Energy production: During fasting, the triacylglycerols stored
in depot fat provide the body with free fatty acids that are
oxidized to give energy.
2) Fixation of some organs e.g. kidney.
3) Heat Insulator around the body.
4) Production of vitamin 0 3 : Exposure of skin to ultraviolet rays
of sun transforms 7-dehydrocholesterol Into vitamin 0 3 .
2. Brown adipose tissue:
a) Certain areas of adipose tissue appear brown in color as they
contain high content of mitochondria, cytochromes ·and well
developed blood supply.
b) The brown adipose tissue may have a special function in the
production of heat. They contain a protein called thermogenln. This
protein acts as uncoupler of oxidative phosphorylation -. ..!. ATP
production and t heat generation.
c) Brown adipose tissue is common In animals exposed.. to cold
atmosphere for warmness. It is little in human, especially in obese
persons.
Oraby's illustrated reviews of biochemistry 102

Two processes control the amount of trlacylglycerols In depot fat:


lipogenesis and lipolysis

11. Lipogenesis:
CH 20H
A. Definition: Lipogenesis is the I
HO-C-H 0
synthesis of trlacylglycerols from fatty I II
CH2·0·PI -OH
acids (acyl CoA) and glycerol (glycerol-
OH
3-phosphate).
Glycerol phosphate
1. Activation of fatty acids Into fatty
0II
acyl CoA:
2 CoA-C-R,, ~-~---
ACJI Ce.\ (Acytrranstetase)
0II
R·COOH
I) ~ R-C-SCGA ~CoA
Fatty add AT~
CGA8H AMP+ PPI
AcyiCoA ,if
0II
+HP 0 C~-0-C-R,
II I
R2 -C-O-C-H 0
I II
2. Synthesis of glycerol phosphate : CH2-0-P-OH
I
a) In liver, kidney, intestine, and OH
lactating mammary glands: Ph01phatldlc acid
Glycerol phosphate is formed
H20 ""'\ (Phosphatase)
from glycerol by glyceroklnase

,~PI
or from glucose through

0II
m.-
1
[GJYC!!1 tfnue) 0 CH2 -0-C-R,
. v,,_., ~ • Glycerol phosphate II I
R11-c-o-c-
I
H
ATP ADP C~OH

glycolysis. Diacylglycerol
0II
b) In muscles and adipose tissue,
CoA-C·Ra~
glyceroklnase is deficient. In Aeyl Ce.\ (Ac:yft~ansfetue)
these tissues glycerol phosphate
Is formed from glucose (through ~CoA
'If
glycolysis) as follows: 0II
0II CH2·0-C-Rt
Glucose ~ Dihydroxyacetone-p I

R11-c-o-c-H oII
~ Glycerol phosphate
I
CH2 -0-C-Ra

3. Synthesis of trlacylglycerol: by Trlacylglycerol


reaction between acyl CoA and
glycerol phosphate as shown in the Synthesis of trlacylglycerols.
o.~c:«.,
diagram.
Uplds metabolism 103

Liver Adipose tissue

Production of glycerol phosphate In liver and adipose tissue


B. Reaulatlon of llpoaenesls:
1. After meal, lipogenesis Ia stimulated: Insulin Is secreted which
stimulates glycolysis. Glycolysis supplies dihydroxyacetone phosphate
that Is converted Into glycerol phosphate in adipose tissue.
2. During fasting lipogenesis Is inhibited, as anti-Insulin hormones e.g.
glucagon are secreted. These Inhibit lipogenesis and stimulate lipolysis.

III .. LIPOL YSIS :


A. Definition and loc_ation: Lipolysis is the hydrolysis of triacylglycerols Into
glycerol and fa~ty acids. Its location is the cytosol of adipose tissue cells.
B. Steps: Lipolysis Is earned out by a number of lipase enzymes, which are
present In adipose tissue. These are :
1. Hormone sensitive trlacylglycerol lipase.
2. Diacylglycerol lipase.
3. Monoacylglycerol lipase.

Hormone sensitive
triccylglycerol rrpase
Trlacylglycerol . ) Diacylglycerol + Free fatty acid

Glycerol (Monoaeylglycerol lipase)


+Free fatty acid ( t · Monoacylglycerol + Free fatty acid

MBchanlsm of lipolysis.

C. Fate of products of llpolvsls:


1. Fate of fatty acids:
a) Oxidation by tissues to give energy.
b) Fatty acids may remain in adipose tissue to be re-esterlfied Into
trlacylglycerols again.
Oraby's illustrated reviews of biochemistry 104

2. Fate of glycerol:
a} Glycerol may diffuse to blood and then taken up by the liver to give:
1) Glucose by gluconeogenesis.
2) Pyruvate by glycolysis.
3) Triacylglycerols by lipogenesis (outside adipose tissue).
Note: In adipose tissue, glycerokinase enzyme is deficient, which is
essential to convert glycerol into glycerol phosphate. Thus glycerol
in adipose tissue cannot be used in re-esterification of fatty acids
to form triacylglycerols.

Adipose
tissue

' \. .i..
, - - Glycerol f"f"A __.#
Glycerol-3-p

:~
: AT
~~
I~
:ADP
I
II l
D1hydroxyacetone-p

~GLYCOLYSIS
I
I
Glyc,Xol-3-p
Glucose

Plaslllll

Lipolysis and fate of its products.

D. Regulation of lipolysis: The key enzyme controlling Lipolysis is the


hormone sensitive triacylglycerol lipase. It exists in 2 forms: active
(phosphorylated) and inactive (dephosphorylated)
1. During fasting:
a) Many hormones (epinephrine, norepinephrine and glucagon) are
secreted. They stimulate adenylate cyclase enzyme + formation of
cAMP + Activation of protein kinase enzyme + Phosphorylation of
hormone sensitive triacylglycerol lipase ,. Stimulation of lipolysis.
Uplds metabolism 105

2. After meal:
a) Insulin is secreted -. Stimulation of both phosphodiesterase
enzyme and lipase phosphatase enzyme -. dephosphoryl!iltion and
inactivation of hormone sensitive trlacylglycerol lipase enzyme -.
Inhibition of lipolysis
b) Caffeine is a substance present in coffee. It Inhibits
phosphodiesterase enzyme -. Stimulation of lipolysis.

Aller meal - - - - - ~

cAMP AMP 0
phosplaatase

TRIACYLGLYCEROL

I(
0 HotrrtottHensll ,...® Honnone ~ /t)aB9
(active) (inactive)
Fatty
acid

DIACYLGLYCEROL

PP, +cAMP ATP

During fasting - - - •• ~

Hormonal regulation of lipolysis.

E. Causes of excessive lipolysis: In conditions where the need for energy


is increased (low insulin and high glucagon):
1. Starvation.
2. Diabetes mellitus.
3. Low carbohydrate diet.
4. Hypercatabolic states e.g. fevers, hyperthyroidism.
Oraby's illustrated reviews of biochemistry 106

Patty acids o~idation


Among the different foodstuffs, lipids give (through fatty acids oxidation) the
maximum amount of energy. 3 Different pathways for fatty acid oxidation are
present: a, p and ro.

1. p-Ox/dation:
A. Site:
1. Intracellular location: Mitochondria.
2. Organ location:
a) Liver, kidney, heart and skletal muscles.
b) p-Oxidation never occur in brain and RBCs.
B. Transport of fatty acids Into the mitochondria:
1. After the fatty acid is taken up by the cell, it is converted to the acyl
CoA in the cytosol:

0II
R-COOH R-C-SCoA
Fatty acid Fatly acyl CoA

2. Because the !}-oxidation occurs in the mitochondrial matrix, the acyl


CoA must be transported across the mitochondrial inner membrane,
which is impermeable to acyl CoA. Therefore, a specialized carrier
present in the inner mitochondrial membrane called carnltlne,
transports the acyl CoA from cytosol into the mitochondrial matrix. The
transport process is called carnitine shuttle.
3. Carnltlne shuttle:
a) Structure of carnltlne: T p
Carnitine is p-hydroxy-y-trimethyl ammonium CHrCH-CHrCOOH
I I
butyric acid. It is derived from lysine amino WOH
acid. I
b) Function of carnltlne: (ct\)3
It transports long chain acyl CoA inside the Carnltlne structure
mitochondrial matrix where enzymes for p
oxidation are present.
c) Steps of shuttle: Three enzymes are involved:
1) Carnltlne acyl transferase 1:
i- For palmitic acid, it is called carnitine palmitoyl transferase I
ii- It is present in the outer mitochondrial membrane.
Lipids metabolism 107

iii- It transfers the acyl group from acyl CoA to carnitine to form
acyl carnitine.
2) Carnitine acylcarnitine translocase:
i- It is present in the inner mitochondrial membrane .
ii- It transports acyl carnitine across inner mitochondrial
membrane (in exchange with carnitine).
3) Carnitine acylcarnitine transferase II :
i- For palmitic acid, it is called carnitine palmitoyl transferase II.
ii - It is present in the inner mitochondrial membrane.
iii - It transfers the acyl group from acyl carni tin e to form acy l
CoA again.
ICYTOSOL) [ MfrOCHOND@ MfrOCHONORIAL MATRIX
i
!+-OUTER MfrOCHONDRIAL MEMBRANE +-INNER MfrOCHONDRIAL MEMBRANE

+AMP + PPI
H20 \
;
l!
\1
0
AC -CoA
Fatty acyl CoA
•••••••••••••• Camltlne
~
RC - CoA
Fatty acyl CoA
J,
U.loftYI c.•···
:I
> 0l
Acyl CoA
synthetase P-Oxidation

RC - OH
~ ) '\
~
i •-r- ........ ~
0
RC -camltlne CoASH
Fatly acid 1CoASH CoASH
Acylcamiline Acylcamitine
• : +ATP

-------------------------------------------------- ~~
Carnitine shuttle t,.;..\:

C. Steps of B-Oxidation:
1. Actlvati on of fatty ac i d and transport i n s id e the m itoc ho ndri a:
a) Catalyzed by fatty acyl CoA synthetase enzyme and carnitine
shuttle.
b) 2 high energy bonds (-P) are utilized: ATP +AMP+ PPi.
2. Un sat uration of fatty acids:
a) Catalyzed by fatty acyl CoA dehydrogenase enzyme .
b) This enzyme is one of flavoproteins and its reduced coenzyme
(FADH 2 ) gives 2 ATP when oxidized in the respiratory chain.
3. Hydration :
a) Catalyzed by enoyl CoA hydratase enzyme .
b) It helps the addition of water to saturate double bonds.
4. Oxidation:
a) Catalyzed by 13-hydroxyacyl CoA dehydrogenase enzyme.
b) Its reduced coenzyme (NADH+W) gives 3 ATP when oxidized in the
respiratory chain.
5. Splitting (cleavage) step:
a) Ca t alyzed by Acy CoA acyl transferase (thiolase) enzyme.
Oraby's illustrated reviews of biochemistry 108

b) It splits acyl CoA into acetyl CoA and acyl CoA (shorter than the
original one by 2 carbon atoms).

Jk:arbon
~
CH3 -(CH~x-CH2·CH2-C-SCoA
~
Fatty acyl CoA =
g
n
:::r 0II
FAD s: g CH3 - (Cti2lx-CH2 - C~-C- S- CoA
; §:
-<
0
g. e.
=
0 =
~
Fatty acyl CoA
0 §: =
I» C"
;
0II =
n

¥+AMP+ PPI Acyl CoA
CHa- (CH2)x- CH=CH -C- SCoA 3 synthetase
&2..trans-Enoyl CoA =
=
~
CoA-SH + ATP G) (Activation)
(a. and ll Unsaturated acyl CoA) q

=
en
"CC 0II
0

..,~ CH3 - (C~x-C~- C~-C-OH


Fatty acid
!0 (Hydration) @
~u
OH 0
N I II

Q)
CHa-(CH2>x-CH-CH2-C-SCoA
E Cytosol
=
z:
p.tlydraxyacyl CoA
u
Q) NAD+
.,"
c
'i
-
0

0
II
0II
CHa-(Cti2lx- c-C~-C-SCoA
IS-Ketaacyl CoA

CoASH

(3- Oxidation
0

Steps in the IJ-oxidation of palmitic acid (16 C) in mitochondria.


Lipids metabolism 109

D. Energy production of 8-oxldatlon:

(Ftesplratory chain) -.... 5 ATP

@ . 12ATP

(Respiratory chain) -.... 5 ATP

~ 12ATP

(Respiratory chain) -.... 5 ATP

~ 12ATP

(Respiratory chain) -.... 5 ATP

----+12ATP

----·12ATP

(Respiratory chain) -.... 5 ATP

~ 12ATP

----+12ATP

I ----·12ATP

Palmitic acid (18 C) c:::> 129 ATP Oraby

1. e.g. palmitic acid (16 carbons):


a) p-oxldation of palmitic acid will be repeated 7 times (turns) to
produce 8 acetyl CoA.
Oraby's illustrated reviews of biochemistry 110

b) In each turn. one molecule of reduced FADH 2 and one molecule of


reduced NADH+W are produced. They are oxidized in respiratory
chain to give 5 ATP.
FADH2 _. 2 ATP
NADH+H' _. 3 A TP
:. 7 turns x 5 ATP--. 35 ATP.
c) Oxidation of one molecule of acetyl CoA in Krebs' cycle gives 12
ATP.
:. 8 Acetyl CoA x 12 ATP =96 ATP
d) Two high energy phosphate bonds are utilized in the first reaction
(catalyzed by acyl CoA synthetase) which occurs for one time only.
e) :. Net energy gain =
Energy produced - Energy utilized
=(35 ATP + 96 ATP) - 2 ATP
=131 ATP - 2 ATP = 129 ATP
2. Calculation formula of energy production of oxidation of any fatty
acid:

= [(~ -t)xSATP ]+[~x12ATP]- ZATP

Where N = Number of carbons of fatty acid e.g. palmitic acid = 16


carbons, so energy production =

= [C26 -t)xsArP]+[ 126xt2ATP]- 2ATP

=((8- 1) x 5 ATP} + (8 x 12 ATP}- 2 ATP = 129 ATP

E. Importance (functions) of 8-oxidation:


1. Energy production e.g. palmitic acid produces 129 ATP.
2. Production of acetyl CoA which enter in many pathways (see sources
and fate of acetyl CoA).
3. Ketone bodies formation: Acetoacetyl CoA is 0 0
II II
CH 3 - C -cH1 c-scoA
the last 4 carbons product in the course of I)-
oxidation of even numbered fatty acids. It may ACETOACETYL-COA
be converted into acetoacetate; one of ketone
bodies (see later).
F. B-oxjdation of odd number fatty acids:
1. They are oxidized by I)-oxidation till a propionyl CoA (3 carbons) is produced.
Then propionyl CoA is converted to succinyl CoA as shown in the following
figure.
2. Sources and Fate of succinyl CoA:
a) Sources:
1) Oxidation of odd number fatty acids.
Lipids metabolism 111

2) Citric acid cycle.


3) Catabolism of some amino acids e.g. leucine, valine and
methionine.
b) Fate: ~
CH:J -C~- C-CoA
1) Glucose synthesis Proplonyt CoA
(gluconeogenesis). [~'C02
2) Heme synthesis. ~~ATP
3) Oxidation in citric acid cycle. Biotin
4) Activation of ketone bodies.
,.~ADP+P1
5) Detoxication.

~
CH:J-CH - C-CoA
11. a-Oxidation:
A. This type of oxidation occurs in a.
LcooH
llelhylmalonyt CoA
position and characterized by:

!
1. It is a mechanism mainly for oxidation Coenzyme fonn

of branched chain fatty acid, which [ ~Colt


'--·_ _ _nwtase__
of vitamin 8, 2
(Deoxyadenosyl
cobalamin)
are methylated at J3 position.
2. It is specific for oxidation of phytanic ~
C~- C-CoA
acid (3, 7, 11, 15 tetra methyl palmitic I
acid), present in plant foodstuffs. C~- COOH

3. It is minor pathway for fatty acid SUcclnyl CoA


oxidation, occurs mainly in brain and
nervous tissues. Metabolism of propionyi CoA.
B. In a.-oxidation, there is one carbon atom removed at a time from o. position.
C. It does not require CoASH and does not generate high energy phosphate.
D. Steps:

., p 0.
(HYDROXYLASE!) 1 p 0.
R- CH2 - CH - CHa-COOH
I } ... R-CH2 - CH -CH -COOH
I I
CH3 CH3 OH
[0]
Branched ratty acid a. Hydroxy fatty acid

j (DeHYDROGENASE)
[2H]- ~

R-~Ha~ ~~ ·COOH
7 p 0.
R-CH2 - CH -C -COOH
CH3I
Lower chain ratty acid
I
CH, 0
II

a.·Koto acid

(P· Oxlda1fon.) AceiYI CoA


L.~===~-~)" Proptonyl CoA
o.- Oxidation of fatty acids.
Oraby's illustrated reviews of biochemistry 112

E. Refsum's disease:
1. This Is Inherited deficiency of enzymes responsible for a oxidation
of phytanic acid. This leads to accumulation of phytanic acid in nervous
tissue and produce nervous damage e.g. deafness and blindness.

111. (t)-Oxldatlon: (I}

!.,-
CH1 -(CH2 ) - COOH
n
A. It is oxidation of terminal CH3

group ((t) carbon) of fatty acid. Oxldatl011)

B. This produces dicarboxylic fatty


HOOC- (CH2 ) - COOH
acids. By Jl oxidation they are . n
OJ carboxylic acid

~ (Acetyl CoA)
converted to adipic acid (6 carbons)
and suberic acid (8 carbons).
C. (I)-Oxidation is a minor pathway for
! ~epeated P· Oxidation)
fatty acid oxidation and catalyzed HOOC(CHJ....COOH Adipic acid
by hydroxylase enzymes of or HOOC(CHJ,-COOH Suberic acid
cytochrome P450.
ro ·Oxidation of fatty acids. fYwfty

1. Sources:
A. Lipids: Oxidation of fatty acids and ketone bodies.
B. Carbohydrate: Glucose oxidation _. Pyruvate • Acetyl CoA.
C. Proteins:
1. Ketogenic amino acids: Give directly acetyl CoA or indirectly give
acetoacetate ,. Acetyl CoA.
2. Glucogenlc amino acids _. Pyruvate ,. Acetyl CoA.
11. Fate:
A. Oxidation: Through Krebs' (citric acid cycle).
B. Lipogenesis: Formation of fatty acids and triacylglycerols.
C. Ketogenesis: Synthesis of ketone bodies.
D. Acetylcholine synthesis.
E. Cholesterol synthesis: which is the precursor for:
1. Bile acids.
2. Vitamin D3.
3. Steroid hormones: glucocorticoids, mineralocorticoids, male sex
hormones (testosterone) and female sex hormones (estrogens and
progesterone).
Lipids metaboltsm 113

(sources) Fsnyscids

I I I
~ Fauyacfds Cholescarol
synthesis
Ketone bodies Acetyl choline
~
synthesis synthesis
I
I
Bile
I
VitO
I
Stanlid
adds hormones

Sources and fate of acetyl CoA.

P}f.qt{~Jf.CJ(J)S S~m!JPESIS
1. INTRODUCTION:
A considerable number of fatty acids are derived from diet. Living organisms
have the capacity to synthesize fatty acids from acetyl CoA. Any substance
that gives acetyl CoA (e.g. glucose) is called lipogenic.
There are 2 mechanisms for fatty acids synthesis: cytoplasmic and
microsomal.

II. CYTOPLASMIC SYSTEM FOR FATTY ACID SYNTHESIS: Also


called extramitochondrial system or de novo synthesis of fatty acids. The
main product of this pathway is palmitate (16 C).
A. Site:
t. Intracellular location: Cytosol.
2. Organ location: Many tissues including liver, adipose tissue, mammary
gland, lung and kidney.
B. Requirements: This pathway needs the following substrates; acetyl

CoA, NADPH+H+ and group of enzymes called collectively fatty acid


synthase complex.
I. Acetyl CoA:
a) It is provided mainly by glucose through pyruvate (glycolysis).
b) Acetyl CoA is formed in mitochondria and fatty acid synthesis occurs
in cytosol. The acetyl CoA cannot diffuse to cytosol because
mitochondrial membrane is impermeable to it. Acetyl CoA condenses
Oraby's illustrated reviews of biochemistry 114

with oxaloacetate - in the presence of citrate synthase- to form


citrate. Then citrate diffuses out of mitochondria to cytosol where it
is splitted again - by citrate lyase - into acetyl CoA and
oxalaoacetate (see the following figure)!
1) Acetyl CoA molecules are used for palmitate synthesis.
2) Oxaloacetate is converted to malate: Malate may be converted
to pyruvate by malic enzyme. This reaction produces

NADPH+H+, which is needed for fatty acid synthesis.

Note: Acetyl CoA used for fatty acid synthesis always derived from
glucose and never from fatty acids. This is because insulin hormone
secreted after meal stimulates both glucose oxidation (+acetyl CoA) and
lipogenesis (=Fatty acid synthesis) and Inhibits lipolysis (+Fatty acid
oxidation+Acetyl CoA).

GlycolySis ,
Olucoso
\
NAOH

Interrelationship between glucose metabolism and palmitate synthesis. [Note: OAA= Oxaloacetate).

l. NADPH+H+: It is provided by 3 sources:


a) Pentose phosphate pathway.
b) Action of cytoplasmic isocitrate dehydrogenase on isocitrate. It is
similar to mitochondrial one but it uses NADP+ as hydrogen carrier.
llsocltrate+NADP++oxalosucclnate + NADPH+H+ + a Ketoglutratel
c) Action of malic enzyme on malate to produce pyruvate:
3. Fatty acid synthase complex:
a) This enzyme is a dlmer i.e. formed of 2 subunits.
Lipids metabolism 115

h) Each unit, which is called monomer, COOH


contains 7 enzymes and a terminal '
H·C·OH
I
9Hz
protein called acyl carrier protein COOH
(ACP). Malate
c) ACP Is a protein contains the vitamin
j').co:a
pantothenic acid in the form of [ Malle enzyme lv-NAoP•
phosphopantotheine. ACP is the part
that carries the acyl group.
(~tfng)

,r- NADPH+~
d) Each monomer contains 2 -SH
COOH
groups, one provided by '
c::o
phosphopantotheine and attached to '
CH,

ACP. The other is provided by


Pyruvate
~
cysteine attached to the enzyme 3- Cytosollc conversion or malate to
pyruvate.
ketoacyl synthase.
e) The 2 monomers are arranged head to tail, so the -SH group of ACP
of one monomer is very close to the -SH group provided by 3-
ketoacyl synthase of the other monomer.
\

·= 1-c;::J-E;J
\

~-: -~:.:...1-I,:#Q~..,._ H..=... 1-1


1 Cys
I
\
\ '"'

~ Phcnplto
Sll o. \\ p.ullolhellle

------1------·~·!!---~l------------ '"t- -----


1
SH dlvhlo11 ,
I \
2 ~~~
p.liiiOIIMIIIIO Et\' SH
c!s
~-
~
-1 KOI~ l_j ~ 1-
re<luciMO -~ re<luciMO .
ltyoiloliMO lr~ 11:d-~-
~
Kolo.>cyt
synth.no

'
Fatty acid synthase complex. The active enzyme is a dimer of identical subunits.

c. Stees of C3ltoelasmlc eathwall:


0II
I. Carboxylation of acetyl CoA to form CH3 -C- S-CoA
malonyl CoA:
AcetyiCoA
a) Malonyl Co A is synthesized from
acetyl Co A by acetyl Co A C02
carboxylase in the presence of biotin ATP

and ATP.
(biotin)
b) It Is the committed step In the
pathway.
0II
HOOC -C~-C- S-CoA

Malonyl CoA synthesis.


Oraby's illustrated reviews of biochemistry 116

2. Synthesis of palmitate:

SH·fciil SH. ~'?~


....,___
llepNtiteps

SH. ~ • PALMITATE
HzO
Pllmltlte•S- /11:1
CII certlon•l
+------
(2)o(7)

SiltHn cartlon 111UI'Ittd


rau, ICicl (Pifmltllel

Synthesis or palmitate (16 C) by fatty acid synthase complex. Oraby

D. Comments on synthesis of palmitate:


1. A molecule of acetyl CoA combines with a pantotheine -SH group of the
first monomer. This step is catalyzed by acetyl (acyl) transacylase
enzyme. Then acetyl group is transferred to the cysteine -SH group of
the other monomer of fatty acid synthase
Lipids metabolism 117

2. A molecule of malonyl CoA then combines with a pantetheine -SH group


of the first monomer. This step is catalyzed by malonyl transacylase
enzyme. This leads to the formation of acetyl (acyl)-malonyl-enzyme.
3. Then acetyl group attacks the malonyl group to liberate C02 and to form
3 ketoacyl enzyme (acetoacetyl enzyme) that attached to pantotheine-
SH group and to let the cysteine-SH group free (which was initially
occupied by the acetyl CoA). This decarboxylation step acts as a
driving force for the whole reactions.
4. The 3-ketoacyl group is reduced, dehydrated and then reduced again to
form the· corresponding acyl-enzyme (4 carbon saturated fatty acyl
enzyme)
IAGIIJI-CaA
5. The 4 carbons saturated fatty
acyl group is then transferred 7Al 7 ~ Acety-CoA
to cysteine -SH group of the
carboxylaseJ
other monomer of fatty acid 7ADP+7A
synthase leaving the AGIIJI -Co\+ 7M ..OIIJI- Co\
pantetheine -SH group of the
first monomer for the second lf14NADPH,W
molecule of malonyl CoA. Fa~ acid
synt ase 7qdea
6. The sequence of reactions is complex
""14NADP"+ 7C02+8CaA -at
then repeated 6 more times to
produce fatty acids of CH.fCHa).COOH
Palmitate .,J)~
6,8,10,12,14 and finally 16 ti
carbons (palmitic acid). Overall reactions of palmitate (16 C) synthesis.
7. Free palmitate is formed by the
action of thioesterase enzyme of the multi-enzyme complex, which adds
H2 0 and hydrolyzes the palmitoyl enzyme.
8. The overall reaction Is as shown In the diagram:

E. Fate of palmitate:
1. Esterification:
Palmitate esterifieid with glycerol to from acylglycerols or with
cholesterol to form cholesteryl ester.
2. Chain elongation:
Palmitate may be elongated to form a longer fatty acid.
3. Desaturatlon: i.e. synthesis of unsaturated fatty acid: palmitate may
undergo desaturation at Cg-C1 o to form palmitoleic acid.
4. Sphingosine formation:
It is formed by condensation of palmityl CoA and the amino acid serine.
Oraby's tllustrated reviews of biochemistry 118

F. Regulation of fatty acid synthesis:


The key enzyme of cytoplasmic pathway
is acetyl CoA carboxylase enzyme .
I . In s ulin: Stimula tes fatty acid synthesis
through :
a) Insulin activates both acetyl CoA
carboxylase and pyruvate ~Co.A® A~CoA
p
c..tOo~ ~.ryi.IM
dehydrogenase [PDH] complex Inactive Active

(through dephosphorylation of the


enzymes) .
b) Insulin stimulates also the transport
of glucose into cells e.g . adipose
ATP
tissue . This increases the amount of
pyruvate => Acetyl CoA => Fatty acid
synthesis .
Hormonal regulation of acetyl CoA
c) In sulin inhibits lipo lysis through carboxylase.

inhibit ion of cAMP => No long chain


fatty acids (acy l CoA) that inhibit lipogenesis.
2. G lu cagon and epinephrine: Inhibits fatty acid synthesis through cyclic
AMP and it also st imulates lipolysis -+ Long chain fatty acids _.
inhibition of lipogenesis.
3. long chain acyl CoA : Inhibits Fatty acid synthesis through :
a) It inhibits allosterically acetyl CoA carboxylase .
b) It inhibits transport of citrate from mitochondria to cytosol.
c) It inhibits pyruvate dehydrogenase (POH) that synthesizes pyruvate
-+ Acetyl CoA -+ fatty acid .
4. Citrate: stimulates fatty acid synthesis through stimulation of acetyl
CoA carboxylase.
Triacylglycerol
caa.-
e Insulin
lnsulln ~l ~oi"Ys!Si ¢:J
2 P'ynlwllo

....
,A-cy_I_C-oA....,I Glycerol
Co A
I
II I ... '....
I ----.... '---+0 r---~
I I \
I I ca. I
Cy1osol I I I Co A

I
I
e
I
2 P'ynlwllo I ca. I

ln&ulln
0
Q ~
lrPoHI40/
____-/
T t;;;:,!l
•O
- , 1 CoA 0..1..-.to

Regulation of fatty acid synthesis.


Lipids metabolism 119

Comparison between fatty acid synthesis (extramitochondrial pathway) and fatty


acid oxidation

Ill. MICROSOMAL PATHWA Y FOR FA TTY 0 II 0


• .• _, .,!
ACID SYNTHESIS: Thts is probably the matn tl4 - c- s - Co to + "CH1 - .. - s -c. to
••
·· cOOtt
si t e for th e elong ation o f exis t ing long chain fatty Malonyl • CoA tAcyl CoA
acid mol ecu les i .e. production of fatty acids
P· Ketoac I . CO A •
longer than 16 carbon atoms. l _ synlheYase c. to · SH+ co,

A. The e long ated molecules (C10-C16) a r e


0 0
derived from : 11..l'cH 1 ..o2 -"01 1-"~-1-Citlo
1. Palmitate : by cytoplasmic pathway . 11. Ketoacyt ·CO A

2. fatty acids of diet.


HioOI'H + If"

F
B. The microsomal pathway needs malonyl CoA as 11. Ketoacyl· CO A
redcutase
HloO''
acetyl donor and NADPH+H+ as coenzyme .
C. Function : This system becomes active during OH 0
<>.... I • .I
.. . ...... -·tll -01, - c-s - c:.to
myelination of nerves in order to provide C 22 P· Hydroxyacyl· CO A
and C 2" fatty actds which are present tn

"'' "'" t··'


sphtngolipids

IV. Synthesis Of Unsaturated Fatty Acids:


0
A. Nonessentia l unsaturat ed fatty acids: A..l'cH.ltH :'tH-'~-s -Colo
1. These are fatty acids which contain one double
<:t. n· Unsaturated acyl· CoA
bond e.g. palmitoleic acid (16: 1) and oleic acid 1
n HioD'H-+ H

F
u.. ·Unsaturated
(18:1) . acyt. CoA reductase
NAOI' 0
2. Synthesi s of oleic acid (oleyl CoA) : It is
synthesized - in the microsomes - from stearyl 0
11 -'hf. -"c H1 -'011 .1~-1 - C..
CoA (active stearic acid). Acyl· CoA

Microsomal system for chain elongation.


Oraby's. illustrated reviews of biochemistry 120

B. Essential fatty acid: These are unsaturated fatty acids which contain more
than one double bond.
1. They are essential because they cannot be
STEI'RYL- Co A+ Eft1J1M
formed in the body and should be taken in
the diet
2. Examples: linoleic acid (18:2) linolenic (..... ~~] ~CoA·Sit
(18:3) and arachidonic acid (20:4).
STEARYL- EnlpM
3. Sources: Vegetable oils as corn oil and
cotton seed oil. ,------, v-ot+NADPH +H+
4. Functions: ( lft'OROIIIYI.ASE)

a- They are Important for normal growth. f'.,.. NADP+ +HafJ


~
b- Synthesis of phospholipids: They enter
HYDROXYSTEARYL-~
in the structure of Phospholipids mainly in
the 2"d position. Phospholipids have many
( HYDfiATAS£ ) ~
functions as: 1 ~ttao
1) Enter In the structure of cell membranes.
1
2) They act as lipotropic factors I.e. prevent
OLE'WL- EftQftll
accumulation of fat in liver.
3) Dipalmltyl lecithin acts as surfactant in
lungs.
( ACYl.·
TMNIFPAIE
] v- CoA• SH

4) Cephalin is important for coagulation.


c- Prevention of atherosclerosis: Essential
fatty acids combine with cholesterol OLEYL- CoA + En&Jm•
forming esters which are rapidly
Microsomal synthesis of non·
metabolized by the liver. This prevents essential unsaturated fatty acids
precipitation of free cholesterol along the e.g. oleyl CoA.
Pmr-- s-i-Dnll4;y
endothelium of blood vessels ~ prevents
atherosclerosis.
d· Synthesis of eicosanoid&: Arachidonic acid gives rise to a group of
compounds called eicosanoid&. They comprise the prostanoids,
leukotrienes (l Ts) and llpoxins (LXs). Prostanoids include prostaglandins
(PGs), prostcyclins (PGis) and thromboxane TXs).

f£ICOS:ft.NOI(J)S
I. Definition: These are cyclic compounds that derived from arachidonic acid
(eicosatetraenoic) (20 C) after cyclization of its carbons chain to form a ring.
Lipids metabolism 121

II. Components of elcosanolds:


1. Prostanolds: which comprise
prostaglandins, prostacycllns and
Arachidonic acid
thromboxanes. Prostaglandins (PG)
Include many types (A, B, D, E, F, H, G
and 1).
fatty acid
cyclooxygonaso
.
t~ 2 02

2. Leukotrlens (LT):
a) They are present
platelets and mast cells.
In leucocytes, ~ -
~
...
m. SYNTHESIS OF PROSTANOIDSS:
A. The immediate precursor of prostanoids is
,. . . . . f::
P002

l~coo-
arachidonic acid, which is 20 carbon
polyunsaturated fatty acid that containing 4
double bonds (20:4 a 5 •8 •11 ' 14 ). Arachidonic acid 0 OH

Is derived from Phospholipids present In all POHz

cell membranes by the action of phospholipase Oxidation and cyclization of


A2 enzyme. arachidonic acid

B. The first step In the synthesis of prostanoids is the oxidation and


cyclization of arachidonic acid to give PGG2 and PGH2 (see the. figure).
These reactions are catalyzed by two microsomal enzymes:
1. Fatty acid cyclo-oxygenase, which requires 2 oxygen molecules.
2. Peroxidase, which Is dependant on reduced glutathione (G-SH).
C. PGH2 is the precursor all prostanoids.
D. Regulation of synthesis of prostanolds:
1. Cortisol inhibits the phospholipase A2 activity,
2. Aspirin, indomethacin and phenylbutazone -which are antiinflamatory
agents- Inhibit cyclooxygenas. These agents do not affect synthesis of
the leukotrlenes.

IV. SYNTHESIS OF LEUKOTRIENES:


A. In neutrophils, arachidonic acid Is converted to 5-hyroperoxy 6, 8, 11, 14
eicosatetraenoic acid (5-HPETE). This reaction is. catalyzed by 5-
llpooxygenase enzyme.
B. 5-HPETE is converted to a series of leukotrlenes, (L T): LTA,., LTB 4 , LTC 4 ,
LT04 and L TE4.
C. In contrast to prostanoids synthesis, no drugs are known specifically to
inhibit the lipoxygenase pathway.
Oraby's Illustrated reviews of biochemistry 122

Phospholipid
(from cell .............,

c,...,, ·--·~e~phollpase A2 J

Lyaophoaphollplda
15-LipoxygenaseJ (Cyclooxygenase)

lr -
Arachidonic acid

~ 9 -........J~:!:.,hGCin
· l I ,..,,..._,
PGOa
,----:------":":\
~ (Peroxidase, GSH)
POH1

Throboxanes ~
• ~pla..let~
• ProciUced ,.c-111 llr ~

e Vaodllallon
• lncrs1Nd VIIC"Iar pennoabUIIy

@ r
'
e~~ 8
• ~of wMe lllaocl ntll

• RlfHM of.,.._.. ..urmu
lncnued dletMtull ol ~

e VaiOCIIIIIIon e V-lltcUCift
e Rllula _ . , . muecle • CoftllacUcn of -~~~ IINICie
• PracfUHd llr _, tlll4lft • Procluccd llr _, Ita-

Leukotrlenes
Prostacyclln

G
lnldlllll plalelet ~liOn
e YIIOCIIIIIIon
• Produced ptlmarlly llr
,..MI,
cndolhlllum ot

~~------------~v~------------~/
Prostanoids

Biosynthesis of prostanoids and leukotrienes from arachidonic acid.


OrcWy
FUNCTIONS OF EICOSANOIDS:
A. Prostanolds:
1. Thromboxanes:
a) It is produced by platelets. It stimulates platelets aggregations.
2. Prostacycl/n:
a) It Inhibits platelets aggregatlona.lt Is produced by endothelial cells
of the blood vessels.
b) Vasodilatation.
3. Prostaglandins:
a) Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2): Produced by most tissues.
1) Vasodilatation.
Uplds metabolism 123

2) Relaxesation of smooth muscles.


b) Prostaglandin F2a (PGF2a): Produced by most tissues.
1) Vasoconstriction.
2) Contraction of smooth muscles.

Note: Prostanoids have a hormonal like action. Prostanoldss differ from a


true hormone In the following aspects:
1. They are formed In almost all tissues rather than in specialized glands.
2. They generally act locally rather than by circulating in the
blood to the far target tissues.
3. Prostanolds are metabolized to Inactive products at their site of
synthesis and are not stored in any tissues.

B. Leukotrlenes(LTA4):
1. Leukotrlenes 8 4 (L TB 4 ):
a) Movement and aggregation of white blood cells at the site of
lnflamatlon (chemotactic movement).
b) Release of lysosomal enzymes.
2. Leukotrlenes (L TC 4 , L TD 4 , L TE 4 ):
a) Bronchoconstrictlon.
b) Vasodilatation.
c) lncre~sed vascular permeability.

{Physiological effects] {Associated disorders)


~~~-----------~
~~------- HudecJie

---- ~lttftslon

~h~--------~-+~~~~

NW~-------~~tl~~jt~~--~~
HaOIMI
·~
fllniiiOit
Aetl&llllood
now eacrealon at Nil·, IC •

(,l!rllle:)
""""'
IIJPttCGIIIIICUIIIJ
~rllu
PMYICpalft

Summary of phlslologlcal and associated disorders of prostaglandins.


~SMII,_.,
Oraby's illustrated reviews of biociJemistry 124

C. In addition to the above functions, ecosanoids have other wide range of


physiological functions as regulation of body temperature and controlling
blood pressure. These functions are shown In the above figure.
D. Excess production of prostanoids results In group of symptoms including
pain, inflammation, fever, nausea and vomiting (see figure).

!M.eta6o{ism of Conjugatetf £ipitfs


I. METABOLISM OF PHOSPHOLIPIDS:
A. Phospholipids are lipids containing phosphate.
B. They also contain alcohol (glycerol or sphingosine), fatty acid(s) and
nitrogenous base.
'\
C. The bases include; choline, serine, ethanolamine and inositol.

( -(
[!}
Sat.FA J
(unsat. FA)

-®~
Glycerophotphollpldt
[1 I-
FA ]

0-< !!!:• )
Sphlngophospholiplds
Phospholipids.

D. Svnthesls of lecithin (Phosphatldyl choline): It is formed of glycerol,


two fatty acids, phosphate and choline.
1. Activation of fatty acids into acyl CoA:
2. Synthesis of 1,2 diacylglycerol.
3. Activation of choline Into COP-choline.
4. Reaction of 1,2 diacylglycerol with COP-choline to form lecithin.
E. Synthesis of Phosphatldyl ethanolamine and phosphatidyl
serine; Same as lecithin but active ethanolamine (COP-ethanolamine) or
active serine (COP-serine) are used instead of active choline.
F. Synthesis of Phosphatldyl Inositol and Phosphatldyl Inositol 4.5
blsphosphate:
1. Activation of fatty acids into acyl CoA:
2. Synthesis of 1,2 diacylglycerol phosphate.
3. Reaction of 1,2 diacylglycerol phosphate with CTP to form COP-
diacylglycerol.
4. COP-diacylglycerol reacts with inositol to form Phosphatidyl inositol.
5. Phosphatidyl inositol then accepts 2 phosphate from 2 ATP to form
Phosphatidyl inositol 4, 5 bisphosphate.
Uplds metabolism 125

CH 2 -cooR
I 011 CHa-cooR
I OM
CH-
I COOR
-®-oltO*M OM 54 CH - COOR ItO Oil A
tK2 - 0 -®-o~o-@
CH 2 - 0 011 KID. .•
7 '\I
OM 2ATP 2ADP 0
I

Phosphatldyllnosltol
®
Phosphatldyllnosltol 4,5 blsphosphate

CH.OH
l .. IGlliCWolclnasaJ
f
""
~~OH
HO-C•H --===;::::;~:!......-t•.- HO-y·H >4 ., Glycolysis
Ha~-OH f ~ t~zc-o-®
ATP ADP
Olycorol Glycerol Dlhydroxy
3-phosphate acetone
phosphate
2 ACYL.•CoA

2CIIA
0
I
H1y-o-c-R1
R1-c-o-c-H
& "•~-o-®
1,2 Diacylglycerol
Ohalln• phosphate
l•ti!Dnuomln.)
(Iarin•)

~:~
kina..
AOP
Dluylgllletrol phosphate COP-diacylglycerol
PHOSPHATASI! synthase
Phoaphochalln•
(PhollpllcNihanol·
amln•l
(Pholpho..rln•l
'• PPI

~
Ra-~-o-y-H '
"a~-o-c-R 1 "a~-o-c-R 1
Ra-~-o-y-H - - - - - - -...
0 ftaCOH

1,2 Diacylglycerol
0 HzC-~
emDOE
CDP-Diacylglycorol
1
Cardiolipin

Inositol
PhosphaUdyllnosltol
synthase
CMP

0
j I
ttay-o-c-R1 tcay-o-c-R,
R1•C•O•C•H Ra-~-o-~-H ~

& H)-o-~ 0 lfaC·O~


1110511U.
2ATP
Challn.
(Ethanalamln•l [Kinase)
(Iarina) Phosphatldyllnosltol
2ADP
Phosphatldylchollne
(Phosphatldyl ethanolamine)
(Phospllatldy/ serine}
Phosphat/dyl Inositol
4, 6 blsphosphate

Biosynthesis of phospholipids.
Oraby's illustrated reviews of biochemistry 126

G. Synthesis of sphlngomylln: It is formed


of: Sphingosine base, Fatty acyl CoA,
phosphate and choline
1. Synthesis of sphingosine: It Is formed of )
amino acid serine and active palmitic acid
(16C): palmityl CoA o+ sphingosine.
2. Then sphingosine reacts with acyl CoA to Sphingomyelin
form ceramide.
3. Ceramide then reacts with COP-choline to form sphingomyelin.

v
CHa-CCHaJa- Cfta- CHa- C-S-c:oA
f!Ma
HOOC• ~-Cifa-OH
AfUI/nt ·Q,A SERINE

P'IRIOOXAL-p, MA1 +
'/;,------J

CoA· SH . _ _ / " - - . COa

~
CH 1 - lCHata-CHa- etta- C·CjH·Cfta-OH
rota
.J ·KE'IfJDIN'IDROSI'HIN«JS/N£

I PHOSPHOLIPASE Ad

0II
'CH~-0 C-R,
R~-C-
9. 'C-H
I
PHOSPHOLIPASE oJ
I
'CH2 -0-I- P
9. 0-IN-BASEJ
1.-:P:-H:-:-O~SP:-H:-:-O..&.U-::-PAS~E~A:-a-,J

I PHOSPHOLIPASE c J
Sites of me hydroly1ic: activity of phospholi!IIMI on a phospholipid Biosynthesis of sphingosine. CFp, flaoprotein.l
substrate. p~s...:.t--.»y

H. Degradation of phospholipids:
1. Phosphoglycerldes are degraded by phosphllpases A1, A 2 , C and D.
They are present in most tissues and pancreatic juice.
2. Sphingomyelin is degraded by lysosomal enzymes, sphlngo-
myellnase. Its deficiency leads to a disease called Niemann Pick
disease. It is characterized by enlarged liver and spleen and death at
early life.
Uplds metabolism 127

3. A plasma enzyme called LCAT (lecithin cholesterol acyl transeferase)


can act upon second fatty acyl CoA of lecithin (similar to phospholipase
A2) converting It into lysolecithin.

(LCAT)
LECITHIN+ CHOLESTEROL --==-....,LYSOLECITHIN+ CHOLESTERYJ. QTER.

I. Functloos of ghoaghollglda:
1. Phospholipids enter in the structure of cell membrane.
2. Phospholipids containing choline (e.g. lecithin) act as
neurotransmitters. They also act as methyl donors in
transmethylation reaction.
3. Phospholipids act as lipotropic factors i.e. prevent accumulation of fat
In liver and hence prevent fatty liver.
4. Dipalmityl lecithin acts as surfactant in the lungs. It prevents
adherence of alveolar wall. Its deficiency leads to respiratory distress
syndrome In premature babies.
5. Cephalin has a role In coagulation mechanism.
8. Lipositol (Phosphatldyl inositol) acts as precursor for Inositol
triphosphate. The latter acts as 2"d messenger, mediating ·action of
some hormones Inside target cells.
7. Phospholipids In bile make cholesterol soluble. Their deficiency leads
to cholesterol gallstones.

II. METABOLISM OF GL YCOLIPIDS (SPHINGOL/PIDS):


A. Glycoliplds are lipids containing carbohydrates.
B. They also contain sphingosine and one fatty acid. They r..---,
differ from each other according to the type of I .I H Fatty acid I
carbohydrate content.
I 8 1
I I I
C. Synthesis of cerebroside&: They Contain galactose·. I; ·kE3>.
1. Synthesis of sphingosine: See before.
2. Formation of ceramlde.
3. Activation of galactose: UDP-Giucose UDP Galactose.~
'---~
Cenlnsldn.
--
D. Degradation of cerebrosldes Is by glucocerebrosldase. Its deflency
leads to a disease called Gaucher's disease. It Is characterized by mental
retardation and enlarged liver and spleen in children.

UDP-GLUCOSE

11••........;
UOP-
ACYL- CoA CoA GALACTOSE UDP·

SPHINGOSINE u CERAMIDE \._ J. CER£BR0$1DE


Biosynthesis of cerebrosides. Ora by
Oraby's Illustrated reviews of biochemistry 128

E. Lipidosis: Errors of phospholipids and sphingolipid& metabolism:


These are a group of diseases In which there Is an abnormal accumulation
of phospholipids and glycolipid& In nervous tissue. They are common in
children. They are characterized by:
1. Deficiency of specific lysosomal enzymes responsible for degradation of
sphlngollplds.
2. Accumulation of sphingolipids In tissues leads to their enlargement e.g.
liver and spleen enlargement.
3. Mental retardation Is present in many diseases.
4. The most common diseases are Gaucher's disease and Niemann Pick
diseases (see the table below).

Summary of the Important lipidosis


Dlse811t Enzyme Deficiency lnd Rucdon lnvoiYed a1n1c11 Symptam~
Gaucher's disease Enllf9lld liver and spleen, mentll retar·
Glucoc:erebrosict.e
dation
Fabry's dlse110 Skin rashs. kidney taUure ;
Ceramlde trlhuosldae full symptamt only In mala CX·IInked
recessive,
Metac:hromltlc leukodystrophy Sulfatldase Prowaalve nervous dlsordon due to
demyelination; motor dysfunction
Krabbe's disease Galactocerabrolldase Severo mental rotardltlon In lnt~nts;
myelin almost absent
Nlemann·Pick dlsoase Sphlngomyellnaso Enlarged liver and spleen due to ~ea~mula·
tlon of sphlngocnyelln; fatal !nearly lifo
Mental retardation, blindness, demyelln•
Tay·SIChs disease Huosamlnlct.e tlon, ICCUmulatlon of Tay.sechs genglfo. .
llde(GM 2 ,
Monal retardation, liver enlergoment,
Generalized CGM , ) Galactosidase skeletal defonnatlon, ac:cumulllllon of
gangliosidosis
GM , gangllolldas
NOTE:
1- Defects in synthesis of phospholipids and sphingolipids + Multiple sclerosis.
2- Defects in degradation of phospholipids and sphingolipids (lysosomal disorders)
+ Sphingolipidosis.

}fee tone (7(etone) CBotfies


I. DEFINITION: These are 3 compounds formed by the liver and include:

Acetoacetate
0II
CH3 -C- CH2- COOH

OH
P-Hydroxybutyrate CH3 -CH-CH2- COOH

0II
Acetone C~-C-CH 3
Lipids metabolism 129

11. FUNCTIONS (IMPORTANCE) OF KETONE BODIES:


A. Source of energy: ketone bodies are used as a source of energy. They
are converted into acetyi-CoA which is oxidized in tricarboxylic acid (TCA)
cycle.
B. Skeletal muscles, cardiac muscles, kidneys and rTrost of tissues can use
ketone bodies as a source of energy in prolonged fasting and starvation.
C. Brain tissue can also oxidize ketone
bodies within 5 to 6 days of starvation.
Note: brain never oxidizes fatty acids.
D. Liver does not contain enzymes for
ketone bodies oxidation (ketolysis).
Thus liver cannot oxidize them.

Ill. SYNTHESIS OF KETONE BODIES


(KETOGENESIS):
A. Site;
1. Organ location: Liver
2. Intracellular location: Mitochondria.
B. Precursor: Acetyl CoA (derived from
~-c· SCoA
.
0
fatty acids oxidation and ketogenic

amino acids). CH:a·~·QB

C. Steps: Acetoacetate is the first ketone CHt·co·oa


body produced. Then both ll-hydroxy HIIGCOA
butyrate and acetone are derived from It
H1r1G co.-~ L CH,8- CoA
~- Acetyl CoA
1. Formation of acetoacetyl CoA:
From condensation of 2 acetyl
a)
.
0
CH,C • CHt- C·OH
0..
CoA molecules.
b) Acetoacetyl CoA may also be Acetoacetete

derived from ll-oxidation of fatty


acids (last 4 carbons).
2. Formation of HMG-CoA Hi-hydroxyl co,
p-methyl glutaryl CoA): By
condensation of third molecule of
acetyl CoA in the presence of HMG
0.
CH,- c-cH,
H 0
c
CH,·C· CHt· -oH
CoA synthase.

OH
3. Formation of acetoacetate by HMG
CoA lyase.
Synthesis of ketone bodies.
HMG =hydroxymethylglutaryl CoA.
Oraby's illustrated reviews of biochemistry 130

4. Formation of P- hydroxybutyrate and acetone: Acetoacetate is either:


a) Spontaneously decarboxylated into acetone.
b) Reduced by hydroxybutyrate dehydroganase Into 11-hydroxy-butyrate.

D~ Conditions that increase ketogenesis:


1. Starvation.
2. Diabetes mellitus.
3. Low carbohydrate diet.
4. Hhypercatabolic states e.g. fevers, hyperthyroidism.
Note that both lipolysis and ketogenesis are activated by the same conditions.

E. Regulation of ketogenesis:
1. After meal, insulin is secreted, and this Inhibits lipolysis and in turn
Inhibits ketogenesis.
2. During fasting anti-insulin hormones are secreted e.g. glucagon. This
stimulates lipolysis and In turn ketogenesis.
3. Explanation:
a) Conditions causing excessive lipolysis in adipose tissue leads to
very high level of plasma free fatty acids (FFA).
b) The liver in both fed and fasting states has the ability to extract
30% of the free fatty acids passing through it. Thus at high
concentration of plasma FFA, the amount extracted by the liver is
increased.
c) In liver, FFA is activated to acyl CoA __. P-Oxidation to give acetyl
CoA.
d) Acetyl CoA is oxidized in citric acid cycle, but if the amount of
acetyl CoA molecules is more than the capacity of CAC, they are
used to form ketone bodies.

Adipose tissue Blood Liver

FfA-.~Acyl CoA
~ (lJ- oxidation)

Acetyl CoA ~ Citric acid cycle


Insulin Glucagon ~(Ketogenesis!
Ketone bodies

Regulation of ketogenesis.
Lipids motabolism 131

I V. OXIDATION OF KETONE BODIES (KETOLYSIS):


A. Site:
1. Intracel lular l oca ti on: Mitochondria
2. O rgan location : Ex tra hepatic tissues as musc les
Noto: Ketolys1s does no t occur in l1ver because 11 docs not con ta1n
enzymes for 1t
B. Steps:
1 . Ace tone is volatile and removed 1n the expired a1r.
2. P- Hydroxybutyra te is conver ted In to ace toace ta te by hydroxybu tyrate
del1ydrogenase enzyme .
3. Acetoace tate IS then act1vated 1n to ace toacety l CoA by
a) Thiopho r asc enzyme 1n th e presence o f succ1nyl CoA
b) Ace toacetyl CoA syn t hetase enzyme. 1n the presence of ATP
4. Acetoacetyl CoA IS split into two molecu les or acetyl CoA wh1ch are
oxidized in citric ac1d cycle Ea ch g1ves 12 ATP

JPtrtphtrol ttssuts

• ·t"•'

Ketone bodies synthesis in the liver [KETOGENESIS) and utilization In peripheral ti ssues (KETOLYSIS). ,\!~I
t""

v. BLOOD KETONE BODIES AND KETOSIS:


A. Blood ketone bodies concentration is less than 3 mg l dl.
B. Ketonemia: is the increase of blood ketone bodies above normal
concentration.
1. It occurs when the rate of format1on of ketone bod1es (ketogenesis) IS

grater than the rat e of their oxidation (ke toly sis).


2. If the condition IS seve re . ketonemia may l ead to acidosis ( ketosis ).
C. Urin e ketone bodies: is less than 40 mg /da y .
D. Ketonuria: is the increase of urine ketone bodies concen trat ion above
normal concen tratio n:
1. It u sually occurs with k e tonemia.
Oraby's illustrated reviews of biochemistry 132

E. Causes of ketonemia and ketonuria:


1. Starvation
2. Severe diabetes mellitus.
3. Hypercatabolic states e.g. diarrhea and fever.
F. Ketosis (= ketoacidosis):
1. Definition: It is a condition of metabolic acidosis results from
ketonemia.
2. Mechanism:
a) An increase of ketone bodies in the blood is neutralized by blood
buffers mainly bicarbonate (HC0 3 ').
b) Bicarbonate will be depleted and this leads to decreased blood pH
(acidosis).

Acetoacetate Sodium Sodium Carbonic


bicarbonata acetoacetate acid

Mechanism of ketosis. (Due IO depletion of bicarbonate),


3. Effects of acidosis:
a) Acidosis causes dizziness, loss of concentration ... etc.
b) Acidosis causes transfer of potassium (K•) ions from intracellular
fluid to blood leading to (tK•) hyperkalemia.
c) Ketotic coma: In severe cases of ketosis as in uncontrolled
diabetes mellitus, coma may be developed and the condition may
be fatal.

Liver Blood Extrahepatic tissues

ACVL·CoA +--+--- Fattyoclds---- ------------ 1

l7o•• A GLUC~~'< i~O>A


( AC£TY\O>A \(_) ·;·CoA
\
·... . Kettme btJdiu
, ~-- . "',
KettJne btJdiu KettJne
btJdiu
1
, \

l
4
CITRIC
ACfD
r'
\ CVCL.O
\
'.. .,.- ,,
,'
,
'~
:1co.~
:lCOa.

Formation, Utilization and Excretion of Ketone Bodies.


(The solid arrows indicate the main pathway). t.J~
Lipids metabolism 133

9vleta6o{ism of Clio{estero{
I. STRUCTURE:
HJclrocarlton '"tall""
A. Cholesterol is an animal sterol.
B. It is a solid alcohol having -OH group
at C3.

11. SOURCES OF CHOLESTEROL:


A. Endogenous: Cholesterol is formed
SHo of attachment
in the body almost in all nucleated of fattr aclcl In
cholostoiJI ostor.
cells from Acetyi-CoA (about 700
mg/day).
B. Exogenous: Cholesterol occurs only Structure of cholesterol showing site
of attachment of fatty acid in .to).\'
in food of animal origin such as egg cholesteryl esters. ~.y
yolk, meat, liver and brain. Diet
supplies about 400 mg/day.

111. SYNTHESIS OF CHOLESTEROL:


A. Location:
1. Intracellular location: Cytosol.
2. Organ location:
a) Liver is the major site of cholesterol synthesis.
b) Other tissues e.g. intestine, adrenal cortex, gonads and skin.

B. Precursor: Acetyi-CoA.

C. Steps:
1. Formation of acetoacetyl CoA: by condensation of two molecules of
acetyl CoA:

0 0 CH~ 0
cH3-~-s-eoA + cH3-~ ..... s-eoA Thiolase) oI • oil
C-CH:r- C...,S-COA
II
ACETYL-COA ACETYL-COA "'CoA•SH 0 ACETOACETYL-COA
Oraby's illustrated reviews of biochemistry 134

2. Conversion of acetoacetyl CoA to cholesterol.

0
" ..
0
CHa(: • SCoA + CHa(: • SCoA
Acetyl COA ~ COA

0.
CH~-C~·
..
0
C· SCoA
~ICOA

HOtl~fCH~
.,..,.
HUG CM ACiiiVI
• CoA
COA
CoASH

0
" SCoA
CH,·C·

CH,·C·OH
' .
C~·COQH

F
HMGCOA

I HMG CoA
reductaee
2 NADPH•H+

2NADPH+H
CoASH

~-c..,
, Qtl
CH,·9·QH
CH,•COOH
Mevalonate
~
Sequallne
~
Lanosterol
~
Desmosterol
~

HO
Cholesterol
Lipids metabolism 135
D. Reaulatlon of cholesterol synthesis: HMG CoA reductase is the key
enzyme for cholesterol synthesis .
It is present in two forms: active
dephosphorylated and Inactive
oAIIP
..
hhoallll~
f cii~tt•rote ~
AMP
1:&:\
,_,..,...
~
phosphorylated. It Is Regulated
P1 Choleac..~l
through:
( .v.;
1. Feed back Inhibition: .
Cholesterol (the end product
HMG.CoA roductase ·® HMG.:CoA reductase # ••

(Inactive) (active) \
of the pathway) acts as feed HMG.COA

back inhibitor of HMG CoA


reductase enzyme. Thus, it
decreases more cholesterol
synthesis. AOP ATP
2. Feed back regulation:
Cholesterol (either
synthesized by the cell or
reaching It from diet) inhibits
Regulation of choloatorol oynthoala.
HMG CoA reductase SJ!.DJ!..
This decreases transcription and synthesis of HMG CoA reductase.
3. Hormonal regulation:
a) Glucagon: Inhibits HMG CoA reductase (through stimulation of cAMP
and protein kinase).
b) Insulin: Stimulates HMG CoA reductase (through stimulation of
phosphodiesterase and phosphatase enzymes).
4. Inhibition by drugs: Lovastatin and mevastatin are drugs, which Inhibit
HMG CoA reductase by reversible competitive Inhibition. They are used
to decrease plasma cholesterol levels in patients with hyper-
cholesterolemia.

NUClEUS !-c. . . . . . . .,,,,,,,,,,,,, ,,,


~mANA ,,
''•,,,

Cytosol
"" \
~

~mRNA ~
! TmiSiallon ...! ~=~I
• ~
41if·~'.... =
~ ~ e=~
~-
e~tiiiiiiiiiiiiiii[OivcqeftJi
41( ......, ~
HMOeo.\ "¥ \. §
$
+
Mevalonic acid ;
~ .
~$
J, '"""'''~,,,,,,,,,,,,~
~ ..,,,,,,,,,,
Regulation of cholesterol synthesis.
Oraby's illustrated reviews of biochemistry 136

IV. FUNCTIONS OF CHOLESTEROL:


A. Cholesterol enters in the structure of every body cell (e.g. cell membrane).
B. Cholesterol Is the precursor of:

1. VItamin 03: (subcutaneous fat) _. 7-dehydrocholesterol _.


Vitamin 03.
2. Steroid hormones:
a) Estrogens and progesterone (ovaries).
b) Testosterone and androgens (testes).
c) Glucocortlcolds and m lneralocorticoids (Adrenal
cortex).
3. bll e acids: (Liver)

1. Synthesis of vitamin 03: See part I, vitamins.


Cholesterol _. 7-0ehydrocholesterol _. Vitamin 03 (SKIN) _.
25 hydroxy 03 (LIVER) + 1 ,25 dihydroxy 03 (KIDNEY).

2. Synthesis of steroid hormones (androgens, estrogens, progesterone


and cortlcoids):

I Cholesterol I
!
IPregnenolone I
tl'
l
rl1_7_h_y_d-ro-x-yp_r_e-gn_e_n_o-lo_n_e..
I Progesterone I
!
I Dehydroeplandrosterone I 117 a. hydroxyprogesterone II Corticosterone I
'\. tl' '\. !
Androstenedione
I I Cortisol
I I Aldosterone I
I Testosterone I
!
I Esterone 1-+ 117 P -Estradiol I
The biosynthesis of steroid hormones from cholesterol.
Lipids metabolism 137

3. Synthesis of bile acids and salts:


a) Primary bile acids are cholic and chenodeoxy cholic acid.
b) Secondary bile acids are deoxycholic acid and lithocholic acid.

tMCPH.... NADP"
0.\. ~r>
,(7a.-ttydrox~st} HO
c ..........

......
, ,.
......., ...rdiOIC-
dla : f :
....,
·J~-~

Dna J 8 *'
•"-..,.,._, .... HO
H
HO

Biosynthesis and degradation of bile acids.


!,Note th• pdmary 111e acids have .,. -oH at C7, .tile ucondll)' bh aclck have no -oH • C7J.

v. EXCRETION OF CHOLESTEROL: About one gram of cholesterol is


excreted dally. It is secreted as cholesterol, bile acids and coprostanol:
A. y. Gram cholesterol is excreted as such with bile, which transports it to
the intestine for elimination.
B. % Gram cholesterol is converted to bile acids, which is excreted in the
feces.
C. Some cholesterol is synthesized by intestinal cells and modified by
bacteria before excretion. Bacterial enzymes reduce cholesterol into
coprostanol, which is excreted into feces.
Oraby's illustrated reviews of biochemistry 138

VI. PLASMA CHOLESTEROL :


A. Cholesterol present in plasma is either free or esterified (cholesteryl
ester).
1. Total plasma cholesterol: 140 -220 mg/dl.
2. Free plasma cholesterol: 26 - 126 mg/dl.
B. Hypercholesterolemia:
1. Definition: It is increased plasma cholesterol concentration above 220
mg/dl.
2. Causes:
a) Diet rich in carbohydrate, cholesterol and saturated fatty acids.
b) Hypothyroidism as thyroxin stimulates conversion of cholesterol to
bile acids.
c) Diabetes mellitus.
d) Kidney affection (nephrotic syndrome) unknown mechanism.
e) Obesity.
f) Obstructive jaundice due to decreased excretion of cholesterol
and bile acids.
g) Familial hypercholesterolemia.

c. Hypocholesterolemia:
1. Definition: It is decreased plasma cholesterol concentration below 140
mg/dl
2. Causes :
a) Prolonged fasting which causes decreased secretion of Insulin
(decreased activation of HMG-CoA reductase).
b) Diet rich In unsaturated fatty acids and poor In saturated fatty
acids, carbohydrate and cholesterol.
c) Liver diseases, as liver Is the site where most plasma cholesterol
Is synthesized.
d) Hyperthyroidism.
e) Chronic Infection as tuberculosis.

VI. TRANSPORT OF CHOLESTEROL:


A. Cholesterol Is hydrophobic. It Is transported in plasma In the more soluble
lipoprotein forms: LDL, VLDL and HDL (see plasma lipoproteins).
B. Free cholesterol Is removed from tissues by H~L and transported to be
excreted by the liver.
C. Cholesterol ester Is the storage form of cholesterol: It Is formed in both
tissues and plasma.
Lipids metabolism 139

1. In tissues (liver), cholesterol is esterified by ACAT enzyme (acyl CoA


cholesterol acyl transferase):
Cholesterol + Acyl CoA • Cholesteryl ester+ CoASH

2. In plasma, cholesterol is esterified by LCAT enzyme (lecithin


cholesterol acyl transferase). LCAT is associated with HDL.
Cholesterol + lecithin • Cholesteryl ester+ lysolecithin

(JlLJIS!MJI. £l(JlJ(J)S Jl:J((j)


(JlLJIS!MJI. £l(Jl0(Jl(J{OrrtEINS
I. PLASMA LIPIDS: During fasting, total plasma lipids concentration ranges
from 360-820 mg/dl. They Include:
140-220 mg/dl
1-Cholesterol :
70% Cholesteryl esters
30% Free cholesterol
2-P hospholipids : 150-200 mg/dl
3-Triacylglycerols : 40-160 mg/dl
4-Free fatty acids: 6-16 m g/dl

II. PLASMA LIPOPROTEINS:


A. Importance: Lipoproteins
1. Lipids alone are water Insoluble
compounds. Thus,
be transported In plasma.
they cannot
JJ
Proteins
J)
2. Lipids are conjugated to proteins = Apoproteins Lipids
to form lipoproteins, which are = Apolipoproteins
water-soluble and can be
transported In plasma. ·
3. These proteins are synthesized
JJ JJ
Apo.A Cholesterol
by the liver and called Apo. 8 Phospholipids
apollpoprotelns (or apoprotelns). 8 too 4 848 Triacylglycerols
They are five classes: A, 8, C, D Fatty acids
Apo. c
and E.
Apo. I)
4. Failure of liver to synthesize
apollpoprotelns leads to
Apo. e e..o:l"\
accumulation of fat In liver and this condition is called fatty Hver (see
later).
Oraby's illustrated reviews of biochemistry 140

B. Methods of separation of p l asma lipoproteins:


1 . Ultracentrifugation:
a) Ultracentrifugation means cen t ri fu gation of compounds at high
speed - 40,000 rounds per minutes (RPM) .
b) By ultracentrifugation, plasma lipoproteins are separated into five
fractions acco rding to their density . These are chylomicrons, very
low density lipoprotein (V LDL) , low density lipoprotein (LDL), high
densi t y lipoprotein (H DL ) and albumin free fat t y acids ( FFA )
comp lex.
2. E lectrophoresis
a) By e lec trop lwresis 1 p lasma l ipoproteins ar e sepa r a ted into five
frac ti ons. These are chylomi cronsl f3 - li popro l ei n I pre IHipoprotein I

a-lipoprotein and albumin -FFA complex.

.............
Origin Chylomicron Chylomicron 1-
1- ..
~
(~Upoproteln)
LOL ~VLOL

Mobility
(Pre ~Upoprotmn) LDL
VLDL

l Anode
(+)
-

Electrophoresis
(a-Lipoprotein)
HOL
HOL
\

Ultracentrlfugatlon

Separation of plasma li poproteins. ~~'


t "''

('. Fractions of plasma l ipoprotein s : Each fraction of the five plasma


lipoproteins (chylomicrons, VLDL I LDL, HDL and albumin free fa t ly acids
complex) contains al most all types of lipids i .e. triacylglycero ls,
phospholipids, choleste rol, and free fat ty acids. They differ in:
1. The main lipid content of each fraction.
2. Source of each fraction.
3. Types and amounts of associated proteins (apolipoproteins) . The
protein associated with fatty acids is albumin . The proteins associated
with o t her type s of lipids are globu lins.
Lipids metabolism 141

FRACTIOII SOURCE MAUl LIPID APOLIPOPROTE IllS


Amount Types
ChylomIcron s Intestine TG 2% A, B, 8 ,C &E.
VLDL Liver TG 10% B lOOt c & E.
LDL Blood from C hoi est erol, 22% B 1oo
chylomicrons cholesteryl
and VLDL esters and
phospholipids
HDL Liver C hoi est erol, 50% A, c I D &E.
cholesteryl
esters and
phospholipids
F FA-Album In Adipose FFA 99% Albumin
tissue

Chylomlcrons VLDL

D TRIACYLGLYCEROL

•. PROTEIN

~ PHOSPHOUPIOS
CHOLSTEROL AND
liJ CHOLESTEROL ESTERS
5%

LDL HDL

Composition of plasma lipoproteins.

D. Metabolism of chylomicrons:
1. Site of synthesis: Intestinal mucosa.
2. Functions: Chylomicrons transport dietary lipids from intestine +
Blood + Peripheral tissues.
3. Structure:
a) Lipids:
1) Triacylglycerols, TG (main component).
2) Cholesterol ester (CE) and phospholipids.
3) Fat soluble vitamins.
b) Proteins: 2% and include apo 84 8 , apo E and apo C (CII).
Oraby's illustrated reviews of biochemistry 142

4. Ca t a bol i s m :
a) The particles released by intestinal mucosal cells a r e called
"nascent" chy lomicrons and contains apolipoprotein 84 8
b) When it reaches the pl as ma, it receives - from circulating HDL- two
apolipoproteins E and C and converted into chylomicrons.
c) The triacylglycerols component of chylomicrons will be hydrolyzed
into glycerol and fatty acids. This reaction is catalyzed by
lipoprotein lipase enzyme, which is activated by apo Cll.
d) After hydrolysis of TG, the chylomicron particles begin to shrink. In
addition , the apo Cll returns to HDL. The remaining particles are
called chylomicron remnants.

Dietary fat

chylomicron•

S mall intestino

---.
{:q\
't~}
tl;.
Copllo,..or
r,/j ~rclu oncl
( ( odlpue tinuo
1\
~ ~ LlpOIIIO,Ieht llpolSt (lPll

\ ~ Apo en ~;:; .,,.


~ , \
~~
jf G'J"' \
J' T"'""'"
\II I I Ill II I /IIIII

Chylomicrons remnant

Met abolism of chylomicron s.


Lipids metabolism 143

e) Chylomicron remnants are removed from circulation by the liver.


Hepatocyte membranes contain receptors that recognize the both
apo E and apo 848.
f) The cholesterol released from chylomicron remnants in liver
appears to regulate the rate of cholesterol synthesis by inhibiting
HMG CoA reductase.

Summary of chylomlcrons metabolism:


1-Site of synthesis: intestinal mucosal cells
2-Functlons: transport dietary lipids from intestine to peripheral tissues.
3-Structure:
a-Main lipids: triacylglycerols. Chylomicrons contains also cholesterol,
phospholipids and fat soluble vitamins.
b-Protelns: (2%), apo 848 and receives apo Cll and apo E from HDL.
4-catabollsm: TG are hydrolyzed by lipoprotein lipase (which is activated by
apo Cll). The remaining parts are chylomicron remnants, which are then taken
up by the liver. Hepatocyte receptors can recognize apoB48 and apo E.

5. Disorders of chylomicron& metabolism:


a) Deficiency of lipoprotein lipase: Leads to hyperllpoprotelnemla.
b) The disease is called familial lipoprotein lipase deficiency; it is
characterized by marked increase of plasma chylomicrons, especially
after fatty meal.

E. Metabolism of very low density lipoproteins CVLDLl:


1. Site of synthesis: Liver
2. Functions: VLDL carries lipids from liver to the blood to the peripheral
tissues.
3. Structure:
a) Lipids:
1) Triacylglycerols, TG (main component).
2) Cholesterol esters and phospholipids.
b) Proteins: 10% and include : apo 8 100 , apo E and apo C (CII)
4. Catabolism:
a) The particles released from the liver are called nascent VLDL and
contain 81oo.
b) When it reaches the plasma, it receives- from circulating HDL- two
apollpoproteins; E and C and converted into VLDL.
c) The triacylglycerols component of VLDL will be hydrolyzed into
glycerol and fatty acids. This reaction is catalyzed by lipoprotein
lipase enzyme, which is activated by apo Cll.
d) After hydrolysis of TG, the particles begin to shrink. The remaining
particles are called Intermediate density lipoproteins (IDL).
Oraby's illustrated reviews of biochemistry 144

e) IDL is converted into LDL by transferring phospholipids, apo Cll,


and apo E to HDL.
f) LDL are removed from circulation by tissues as muscles (discussed
later in metabolism of LDL).
g) VLDL particles also transfer phospholipids (PL) and TG to HDL. At
the same time HDL transfer cholesterol esters (CE) to VLDL. These
reactions are catalyzed by cholesterol ester transfer protein.

Summary of VLDL metabolism:


1-Site of synthesis: Liver.
· 2-Functions: transport lipids mainly TG from liver to peripheral tissues.
3-Structure:
a-Main lipids: triacylglycerols. It contains also cholesterol, phospho-
lipids.
b-Proteins: (10%), apo 8 100 and receives apo Cll and apo E from HDL.
4-catabolism: TG are hydrolyzed by lipoprotein lipase (that is activated by
apo Cll). The remainJng parts are IDL, which are then converted into LDL by
transferring phospholipids, apo Cll and apo E to HDL.

NascentVlDL

Metabolism of VLDL
Uplds metabolism 145

5. Disorders of VLDL metabolism:


a) Fatty liver: This is an accumulation of abnormal amounts of fat in
liver. It occurs when there is excess triacylglycerols synthesis in
the liver, which is then excreted in the form of VLDL.

F. Metabolism of low density lipoproteins (LOLl:


1. Site of synthesis: circulation, from VLDL.
2. Function: The primary function of LDL particles is to provide
cholesterol to the peripheral tissues. They do so through:
a) Deposition of free cholesterol on cell membranes.
b) By binding to receptors on cell membranes that recognize apo
8100·

3. Structure:
a) Lipids: cholesterol, cholesteryl esters, and phospholipids.
b) Apoproteins (22%): include apo B1oo·
4. Catabolism:
a) The numbers between brackets refer to the corresponding numbers
on the following figure:
[1] The LDL receptors are negatively charged glycoprotein
molecules, made by the DNA of the cell. They are grouped in pits in
cell membranes. The intracellular side of the pits is coated with a
protein called clathrin.
[2] After binding with receptors, the LDL are internalized as intact
particles by endocytosis.
[3] The vesicle containing the LDL rapidly loses its clathrin coat and
fuses with other similar vesicles, forming large vesicle called
endosomes.
[4] The pH of the contents of endosomes falls, allowing separation
of the LDL from its receptors. The receptors then migrate to one
side of the endosome while the LDL stays free within the lumen of
the vesicle.
[5] The receptors can be returned to the cell membrane. The
lipoprotein remnants are hydrolyzed by lysosomal enzymes
releasing cholesterol, amino acids, fatty acids and phospholipids.

b) If cell contains oversupply of cholesterol : from LDL, HDL or


chylomicron remnants, the cholesterol amount can be decreased
and regulated by one of the following mechanisms:
1) Oversupply of cholesterol inhibits HM G-CoA reductase
activity so that cholesterol synthesis will be decreased.
Oraby's illustrated reviews of biochemistry 146

2) Oversupply of cholesterol can


stimulate a liver enzyme called:
acyl CoA cholesterol acyl
HO
transferase (ACAT): ACAT
transfers a fatty acid from fatty
acyl CoA to cholesterol to form
cholesteryl ester that can be
stored inside the cell for future
use.
3) Oversupply of cholesterol ~
R·C·O
Inhibits the synthesis of new
LDL receptor proteins, so that
SyntheGia of Intracellular choleslafYI
further entry of LDL cholesterol eater.
into the cell is limited.
5. Disorders of LDL metabolism:
a) Type u ramllial hypercholesterolemia.: LDL receptors are deficient in
tissues and liver. Usually assoclted with atherosclerosis.

Murdc cell
--
\
0

Metabolism and degradation of U>L.


Upids metabolism 147

SUMMARY OF LDL METABOLISM:


1-SITE OF SYNTHESIS: circulation from VLDL.
2-FUNCTION: LDL particles provide cholesterol to peripheral tissues.
3·STRUCTURE:
a- Lipid contents: cholesterol, cholesterol esters and phospholipids.
b- Protein contents: (22%), apo B,oo.
4·CATABOLISM:
LDL apo 8 100 are recognized by tissue receptors. After binding with
receptors, the LDL are internalized by endocytosis. Inside cells LDL are
separated from receptors and hydrolyzed by lysosomal enzymes
releasing cholesterol, amino acids, fatty acids and phospholipids.
*If the cell contains oversupply of cholesterol from LDL, HDL or
chylomicron remnants, the cholesterol amount can be decreased by:
a-Inhibition of HMG-CoA reductase + Inhibition of cholesterol
synthesis.
b-Stimulation of ACAT enzyme + Cholesterol ester.
c-lnhlbition of synthesis of LDL receptors + inhibition of LDL uptake by
cells.

G. Metabolism of high density lipoproteins fHDLl:


1. Site of synthesis: liver.
2. Functions:
a) Act as reservoir of apo C-11 that is transferred to chylomicrons and
VLDL to activate lipoprotein lipase enzyme.
b) Remove free (unesterified) cholesterol from extrahepatic tissue and
esterifying it, using a plasma enzyme called: lecithin, cholesterol
acyl transferase (LCAT). The apo A-1 OF HDL activates LCAT.

(LCAT)
LECITHIN+CHOLESTEROL-.;;;;;;;;;;;;;;...~LYSOLECITNIN + CHOLESTER"I'l ESTER.
ApoA·1

c) HDL particles carry cholesterol esters to:


1) VLDL and LDL.
2) Liver where the HDL is hydrolyzed and cholesterol released.
3. Structure:
a) Lipids: Mainly phospholipids together with esterified &
unesterified cholesterol.
b) Proteins (50%): Include Apo A-1, Apo C and Apo E.
4. Catabolism :
a) A newly secreted HDL are disc shaped particles containing mainly
unesterified cholesterol and phospholipids.
b) HDL Is converted into spherical particles by accepting unesterified
cholesterol from peripheral tissues (surface of cell membranes).
c) Once the free cholesterol is taken up, It is immediately esterified by
LCAT. The resulting cholesterol ester is very hydrophobic, so it
remains in HDL and cannot be transferred to peripheral tissues.
d) The liver takes up HDL particles, where the cholesteryl esters are
hydrolyzed. The released cholesterol may undergo:
Oraby's illustrated reviews of biochemistry 148

1) Binding with apoproteins to form lipoproteins.


2) Converting to bile acids.
3) Secreted into the bile to be removed from the body.

~otelns
Cholester oiCCI ) Discoidal nasent HDL
Phospholipids (Pll
Cholesterol ester (CEI
TrlllcylgiYtetols ITGI

HDL receptors

Metabolism of HDL.

Summary of HDL metabolism: -~


1-Site of HDL synthesis: Liver. 'i
2-Functlons: I
a-Contain Apo C-11, which activates lipoprotein lipase that hydrolyzes TG.
b-Remove cholesterol from peripheral tissues and esterified it by
LCAT enzyme +Cholesterol esters.
c- Carry cholesterol esters to VLDL & chylomicrons to the liver.
3-Structure:
a-Main lipids: cholesterol (free and esterified) and phospholipids,
mainly lecithin.
b-Protelns: (50%), apo A-1(which activates LCAT), apo Cll (which
activates lipoprotein lipase and E (which Is recognized by hepatic
receptors)
4-Catabollsm: HDL accepts unesterlfled cholesterol from peripheral tissues.
Then HDL particles (by LC AT enzyme) esterify cholesterol Into cholesterol
esters. Then HDL is taken up by the liver cells where Cholesterol esters
are released inside them to be utilized in the formation of lipoproteins or
excreted in bile.
Lipids metabolism 149

Dietary fat

.,._
~""'
IPI 41 •11 ""
"*-"-l<fl
}
Intestine
~~~--ttGt

Chylomlcrons
I
TG
~~
Chylomicron

~~I
remlnants
CE~
__..HDL. ~ ..
Muscles c

~·4----LDL44-----~~--­

PL
\\\\lltllllll

other tissues

Metabolism and transport of plasma lipoproteins


'
TG

Oraby

H. Catabolism of free fatty acids fFFA);


1. Free fatty acids (FFA) are transported conjugated with albumin.
2. Plasma FFA are produced by lipolysis In adipose tissue and by the
action of lipoprotein lipase In chylomicron& and VLDL.
3. Their level increases in all conditions associated with excessive
lipolysis e.g. fasting, diabetes mellitus ... etc.
4. Different tissues oxidize them to give energy.
5. In cases of excessive lipolysis e.g. uncontrolled diabetes mellitus, FFA
are partially oxidized and produce ketone bodies.

1. Lipoprotein (a):
1. Lipoprotein A, commonly called Lp(a), is a major independent risk
factor for cardiovascular disease. The optimum laboratory level
should be under 20 mg/dl
Oraby's Illustrated reviews of biochemistry 150

2. Lipoprotein (a) is derived in the blood from low density lipoprotein


(LDL) molecules and glycoprotein molecules called apollpoproteln-
a (apo-a). Plasma apo-a Is secreted by the liver.

3. High Lp (a) In blood Is present In fam·illal hypercholesterolemia, and


Is a risk factor for coronary heart disease (CHD), cerebrovascular
disease (CVD), atherosclerosis, thrombosis, and stroke.

III. APOPROTEINS (APOLIPOPROTEINS):


A. Definition: These are proteins (globulins) present In association with
plasma lipids to form lipoproteins.
B. General role (functions):
1. Apollpoproteins form with lipids water-soluble compounds, so they help
transport of lipids between tissues.
2. Some apoproteins activate certain enzymes e.g. Apo C II activates
lipoprotein lipase and Apo-A-1 activates LCAT.
3. They act as ligands (connection) for interaction of lipoprotein with their
receptors In tissues i.e. receptors of lipoproteins In tissues can
recognize lipoproteins through their apoprotelns e.g. apo 8 100 for LDL
receptors
C. Classification (Types):
Apollpoprotelns Lipoproteins Functions
Apo A-1 HDL • Activator of LCAT
• Ligand for HDL receptor
Apo B-411 Chylomicron•· • Synthesized by Intestine
Chylomicron remnants • Ligand for chylomicron
remnant rec~~tora In liver
Apo B·too LDL - VLDL • IDL • Synthesized by liver
• Ligand for LDL receptors
Apo Cll Chylomlcrons • VLDL • • Activator of lipoprotein
HDL lipase
Apo D HDL • May act as lipid transfer
protein.
Apo E Chylomicron•· • Ligand for chylomicron
Chylomicron remnants remnant receptors In liver
- VLDL • HDL
Note: Apo 8 100 Is synthesized In liver and Is one of longest polypeptide
chain (4530 amino acids), while Apo 8 4 11 Is synthesized In Intestine and Is
48% as large as Apo B 100.

IV. DYSL/POPROTEINEMIAS: (DISORDERS OF PLASMA LIPOPROTEINS):


A. Hyperllpoproteinemlas:
1. prlmarv hyperllpoprotelnemla:
Lipids metabolism 151

a) Type I or familial lipoprotein lipase deficiency: Chylomicrons and


VLDL are markedly increased
b) Type II or familial hypercholesterolemia :
1) LDL receptors are deficient in tissues and liver
2) Usually associated with atherosclerosis
c) Typo Ill or hyperllpoproteinemia:
1) Clearance o f chylomicron remnants and VLDL remnants 1s
deficient.
2) Chylomicrons and VLDL remnants are increased .
d) Type IV or familial hypertriacylglycerol emia:
1) Due to overproduct ion o f VLDL.
2) Usua lly associa ted w it h coronary heart d ise ase, type II
diabetes and obesity .
e) Type V or familial hyperiipoproteinemia: Due to overproduct ion of
VLDL and chylomicrons.
Olo<..yl..

Famllllll Type f
hyparllpoproltlneml• Type Ill

H
Uvcr
_ Chylom~ns ~f~ Chylomteron: ~po~
~ype V remnants ~
I Fomillalllpoproteln
llpue deftcleney

-
Familial
ertrlaey1glyeerolemla

VLDL
Type /
ll¥•P'•'fs liplu; LDL
Type uJ/
r
Femlllal Musde.s
1\
Familial lipoprotein
Qput dtfteleney
'"'"'"'i"t''"'
\,,..,,,,
OUwltllasu.,.

Hyperlipoproteinem ia .

2. Seconda r y hyp e rlipoprot einemia: The se abnorma liti es associated w i th


other diseases as :
a) D iabe t es mell1tus d) Obesity .
b) Hypothyro id ism e) Obstructive jaundice .
c) Nephrotic syndrome .
B. Hypolipoproteinemias:
1 . Abetallpoproteinemia: Characterized by absence of LD L (ll-
lipoprotein) . It is associated with low concen trations of chylomic rons
a nd V LDL.
2. Tangier di sease:
a) It is due to deficiency of LCAT enzyme .
b) It is characterized by low concentration of HDL w it h accumulation of
cholesterol in tissues.
Oraby's illustrated reviews of biochemistry 152

v. Plasma lipoproteins and atheroscler osis :


A. Definition: Atheroscle rosis is a
chronic disease in which deposits of
cholesterol, choleste ryl esters and
cellular debris accumulate in the inner
surfaces of large and medium sized
arteries forming plaque . As the
disease progress es, the d eposits Artery wall
thickened by
reduce or even, stop the flow of blood
plaque
causing co ronary artery diseas e or
ce re bral arte r y d ise ase .
NOTE: If atheroscle rosis affects and blocks coronary artery branches of
the heart, it may lead to death of hea rt cells and this is called myocardial
infarctio n.
B. Cau s e s o f ath e ros cle r os i s:
1 . Diseases associated with prolonged elevated levels of VLDL , IDL and
LDL e.g . diabetes melli tus ; hypothyroidism and hyperlipidemia .
2 . Oxidation of LDL by superoxide, hydrogen peroxide and other oxidan ts
into oxidized LDL + Pla que formation and atherosclerosis . See t he
fo llowi ng diagram:

Superoxl<le ~
* ._. .
010
LDL
VItamin E
Aseorblc acid High atflnlry rec:eptors
Nitric: oxide p-ca1otene apec:lllc for LDL be<:ome
Hydrogen peroxl<le Other antioxidants 1downrogulated whtn

o•t
0 the cell haa autflclent
Other oxl<lants c:holutorol.

MACROPHAGE

-,;;;;-oc:ytes adhere to endothtltll


0 cella ond squeeze through
endothelial cella. Moncytea
bt<:ome tinue mecroph8gea
and move to Into aubendolhollum.

<
CD
(/1
(/1
CD

1:'11 Foam colla ec:cumulato, rt lenalllg


1:11 growth lectors lhot atlrnulate
prollftrotlon or amootn muac:te
end calclllc:allon ot plaque.

INTERIOR OF ARTERY

Role o f o x idize d LDL in plaque formation in a rte ri a l wall


Upids metabolism 153

C. Risk factors for atherosclerosis: Since the LDL represents the


transport of cholesterol to the tissues ·and HDL represents the removal of
cholesterol from tissues thus:
1. LDLIHDL ratio helps In predicting atherosclerosis and coronary heart
disease:
t LDL/HDL + Atherosclerosis
+ LDLIHDL + No atherosclerosis
2. Estrogens and exercises cause Increase HDL, thus premenopausal
women and persons doing exercises (jogging) appear to be protected
from coronary heart diseases. Also, diet rich In polyunsaturated fatty
acids lowers blood cholesterol.
Summary of lipase enzymes:
Enzyme Origin Site of action Function Special
properties

Gastric lipase Stomach Stomach Degrades dietary Needs acid pH


trlacylglycerols In
Infants

Pancreatic lipase Pancreas Small Degrades dietary Needs collpase


Intestine trtacylglycerols
(removes fatty acid from
carbon 1 and 3, leaving
2-monoglycerol)
Lipoprotein Blood and Surface Degradeds Can be released
lipase extrahepatic endothelial triacylglycero~ Into plasma by
tissues cells lining circulating In heparin;
the capillaries chylomlcrons or VLDL, activated by
releasing FA and apoproteln C-11
glycerol
Hormone Adipose Adipose Degradation of stored Activated by
sensitive lipase tissue tissue triacvlalvcerola cAMP

Acid lipase Moat tissues Lyaosomes Removes fatty acids Needs acid pH
from lipids taken Into
cella during
phaaocvtosls

Hepatic lipase Liver Liver Removes fatty acids


from chylomicron
remnants and HDLtaken
by hepatic cells.

VI. Role of liver in fat metabolism:


1. Fatty acid synthesis and oxidation.
2. Synthesis and esterification of cholesterol.
3. Formation of lipoproteins.
4. Formation of phospholipids.
5. Formation of ketone bodies.
6. Formation of bile salts.
7. Storage of fat soluble vitamins.
8. Detoxication of steroid hormones.
Oraby's Illustrated reviews of biochemistry 154

Patty fiver
I. Definition of fatty liver: This Is an accumulation of abnormal amount of
fat In the liver for a long time with subsequent compression of liver cells.
This results In liver fibrosis and Impairment of liver function.
11. Causes:

> Overmoblllzatlon of fat from extrahepatic tissues to the liver.


> High carbohydrate diet.
> Undermoblllzatlon of fat from the liver to the plasma.
A. Causes of overmoblllzatlon of fat from extrahepatic tissues to
the liver:
1. After high fat diet. . 1 1
2. Excessive lipolysis Apoprolllns Uplds(o.a.Phosphollplds)
/1 I/·
due to low ,J
carbohydrate diet, Upoproteln•
l
starvation and
diabetes mellitus.
B. High oarbohydrate
diet: On high carbohydrate
diet, liver Is first saturated
with glycogen, then any
further amount of
carbohydrate will be
converted to Causes of faUy liver.
trlacylglycerols (lipogenesis).
c. Causes of under..mobllizatlon of fat from liver to the plasma: This
is due to deficiency of any factor essential for plasma lipoproteins
formation. These factors are:
1. Deficiency of lipotropic factors: see below
2. Decreased synthesis of apoproteln (apollpoproteln).
3. Failure In fprmatlon of phospholipids.
4. Failure in conjugation of apoproteins with trlacylglycerols or
phospholipids
&. Failure in secretion of lipoproteins from liver to plasma.
a. Liver polso.ns: As carbon tetrachloride, chloroform, lead and arsenic.
They cause fatty liver by:
a) Inhibition of formation of apoproteln.
b) Inhibition of conjugation of apoproteln with lipids.
c) Inhibition of secretion of lipoprotein.
Uplds metabolism 155

7. Alcoholism: Ethanol stimulates lipogenesis, Inhibiting fatty acid


oxidation. This leads to accumulation of fat in liver with subsequent
fatty liver.

D. Lipotropic factors:
1. Definition: Lipotropic factors are substances that help the mobilization
of fat from the liver.
2. They Include:
a) Substances enter In structure or help the formation of
phospholipids.
I) Essential fatty acids (polyunsaturated fatty acids).
2) Choline, enters In structure of lecithin, sphingomyelin.
3) Inositol, enters In structure of llposltol.
4) Amino acids: as
1- Methionine which Is a methyl donor essential for choline
formation.
II- Serine which enters In ~he structure of cephalin.
5) VItamins: VItamin B, 2 and folic acid have a role In synthesis
and transfer of methyl group (CH 3 ).

'""=- Slt. FA /"Eslrillfllllrldds

.i5. ~
Un~at. FA
_ ~Serine -+Chephaline
"'-- I.~ la~t;J \.~holln.e4 Lecithin
PhP,PMJJPI(It.. ~,
112
FoUo acl
-·.C1:13 ~ camwne ~·FA oxidation
+
Methionine


Proteins of high biological value ~ Apoprotelns

Lipotropic factors.

b) Proteins of high biological value:


1) These proteins Include all essential amino acids which enter in
structure of apoprotelns In the liver.
2) These proteins Include methionine. Methionine Is essential for:
1- ChoHne formation.
11- Carnltine: a substance essential for fatty acid oxidation.
-------

Summary of lipids pathways

lipogenesis Upolysis FA oxidation FA Ketone bodies Ketone bodies Cholesterol


synthesis oxidation synthesis

Definition AcyiCoA + TG FA to Acetyl CoA to Acetyl CoA to Acetacetate, (3-hydroxybutyrlc Acetyl CoA to
Glycerol-3-p to to FA+ glycerol Krebs' cycle to give Palmitate acid and acetone cholesterol
TG energy
Location Cytosol Cytosol Mitochondria of liver Cytosol Mitochondria Mitochondria Cytosol
Liver &adipose t. Of adipose tissue ••etc of liver •• etc I
ofliver of extrahepatic
tissue
Liver •.

Steps See See See See See See See


Functions Synthesis of TG - Energy Synthesis of FA Energy Cell membrane
AcetyiCoA Vitatmin D
Ketone bodies Bile acids
Steroid Hs.
Key AcyiCoA HSTG lipase ---- AcetyiCoA HMGCoA Thiophrase HMGCoA
synthetase carboxylase synthase reductase
enzymes Glycerol·3·p DH
Glycerokinase
Regulation Hormonal Phosphorylation
dephosphory~·tion
- ~n
depluJsphoryla·tlon
Hormonal regulation Phosphorylation
dephosphorylation
, Long chain acyl Feed back inhibition
CoA Feed back regulation
Hormonal drugs
Diseases -- -- Refsum's disease Ketosis Hyper and
hypocholesterolemia
TG = Tnacylglycerols, FA= fatty ac1ds, DH =dehydrogenase, HSTG lipase= Hormone sensitive tr1acylglycerol hpase.

Professor Said Oraby


Chapter 4 Integration of :M.eta6o{ism

1. INTERCONVERSION OF MAJOR FOODSTUFFS:


A. Glucose can be converted into fatty acids:

I Glucose Pyruvate dehydrogenase • Acetyl CoA-+ Fatty acid I


B. Fatty acids ~ converted into glucose? Because pyruvate dehydrogenase
reaction is irreversible.
C. Only oxidation of Odd number fatty acids .,. Propionyl CoA .,. Succinyl CoA .,.
Glucose (by gluconeogenesis).
D. Glycerol .,. (derived from triacylglycerols) .,. Glycerol-3-phosphate .,.
Dihydroxyacetone phosphate .,. Glucose.
E. The carbon skeletons of ketogenic amino acids .,. Acetoacetate • Acetyl CoA (in
extrahepatic tissue).

Thtoonlno

--- ~ Aceto·

ltoleuclno

l Suaalnyl CoA GlutamaM

l / ll " ' { .,__


Proline "\
Hlltldlno 1 -~

lnterconverslon of the major foodstuffs

-157-
Oraby's illustrated reviews of biochemistry 158

II. FUELS USED BY TISSUES:


A. Types:
1. Glucose.
2. Fatty acids.
3. Ketone bodies.
4. Glycerol.
5. Lactate.
6. Carbon skeleton of some amino acids.
B. Order of preference for oxidation of fuels:
I. Under conditions of carbohydrate deficiency, available fuels are
oxidized in the following order of preference:
a) Ketone bodies.
b) Free fatty acids.
c) Glucose.
2. The preferential utilization of ketone bodies and free fatty acids
spares glucose for its essential functions. This sparing can

be done by:
a) Insulin release is decreased _. t Glucose uptake by muscles
and inhibition of key enzymes of glucose oxidation.
b) Fatty acids and ketone bodies oxidation _. Acetyl CoA _.
Inhibition of pyruvate dehydrogenase complex and other
enzymes of glycolysis (see the diagram).
c) Fatty acids _. Acetyl CoA _. Citrate _. Inhibition of phospho-
fructokinase-! by citrate. CAC also produce ATP _. Inhibition
of phosphofructokinase and Pyruvate kinase enzymes.
d) Allosteric inhibition of hexokinase by glucose-6-phosphate.

The mechanism of inhibition of glucose oxidation by fatty acid


oxidation.
Integration of Metabolism 159

C. Importance of glucose as a source of energy:


Even at times of glucose shortage, minimal supply of glucose is
required for:
1. RBCs and CNS: There are some tissues, which depend only on
glucose as the source of energy e.g. CNS And RBCs.
2. Skeletal muscles: Glucose is the only fuel for skeletal muscles
during exercises (under anaerobic conditions).
3. Lipogenesis: Glucose is the main source of glycerol-a-
phosphate in tissues deficient of glycerol kinase (as adipose
tissue) --. Lipogenesis.
IGlucose -+ Dlhydroqacetone phosphate -+ Glycerol-3-phophosphate -+ UpogeneslsJ
4. Citric acid cycle: A minimal supply of glucose is necessary in
extra hepatic tissues to maintain oxaloacetate concentration --.
Essential for integrity of citric acid cycle.
S. Lactose: Glucose is the source of milk sugar (lactose) in
mammary gland.
D. Sources of glucose:
1. At times of glucose shortage e.g. starvation, glucose is supplied
through gluconeogenesis. The gluconeogenic substances
include:
a) Lactate: formed in RBCs and skeletal muscles.
b) Glycerol: formed in adipose tissue.
c) Glucogenic amino acids.

Glycerol Lactate _. ,. amino acids.


Glycogenic
...... ....... I

.... I
I ,.- ,.-
...~
+ ~,

Glucose ~CsandCNS
!
Dlhydroxvacetone Lactose by
phostate ~ammary glands

Fetal Pyruvate Glycerol-3- phosphate


circulation

' '
Trlacyglycerol
Oraby's illustrated reviews of biochemistry 160

E. Fuels used by active tissues:


I. Heart: Uses all fuels.
2. Muscles:
a) During rest: Utilize fatty acids.
b) During exercises: Utilize glucose.
c) During starvation: utilize fatty acids, ketone bodies and
amino acids (after transamination inot a-keto acids).
3. Liver:
a) In fed state: utilizes glucose, fatty acids and amino acids.
b) During starvation: utilizes fatty acids and amino acids.
c) Liver never utilizes ketone bodies because it does not
contain enzymes of ketolysis.
4. Brain:
a) General: Glucose.
Starvation: Ketone bodies.
b)
S. RBCs:
a) Glucose: anaerobic oxidation (glycolysis).
b) RBCs never oxidize ketone bodies because RBCs contain no
mitochondria.
6. Kidneys:
a) General: utilize glucose and fatty acids.
b) Starvation: utilize amino acids and fatty acids.

Pet£- Starvation cyc(e


I. THE FED (OR ABSORPTIVE) STATE:
After meal, blood glucose, amino acids and chylomicrons levels
increase _. t Insulin and J, Glucagon.

A. The fate of glucose in fed (absorptive) state:


1. The fate of glucose in the liver: Liver cells either oxidize
glucose or convert it into glycogen and triacylglycerols:
a) Glucose is oxidized into C02 and H:zO -+ Energy needs of the
liver.
b) Excess glucose is stored in the liver as glycogen, which is
used during periods .of early fasting (between meals) to
maintain normal blood glucose.
Integration of Metabolism 161

Pit e

...
DlqosllltHI
~.
Df g~, omlu ultb, ad ftlt 6y rlll'fou lfJJita In fA~ wll1td

c) More excess glucose (after glycogen formation) can be


converted into fatty acids and glycerol ~ triacylglycerols ~

released from the liver into the blood as VLDL.


2. The fate of glucose in other tissues:
a) Brain, which depends on glucose for its energy, oxidizes
glucose-+ CO:z and H:zO ~ Energy.
b) Red blood cells, lacking mitochondria, oxidize glucose
anaerobically ~ Pyruvate ~ Lactate ~ Released into
blood.
c) Muscle cells: Glucose transport across cell membrane is
stimulated by insulin. It undergoes:
(i) Glucose oxidation ~ CO:z and H:zO ~ Energy for
contraction.
(ii) Glycogen synthesis ~ Stored and used during
contraction~
Oraby's illustrated reviews of biochemistry 162

d) Adipose cells: Glucose transport across cell membrane is


stimulated by insulin. It undergoes:
(i) Glucose oxidation ~ CO:~ and H:zO ~ Energy for
contraction.
(ii) Triacylglycerols synthesis: Glucose is converted to
glycerol ~ Triacylglycerols.
B. The fate of lipoproteins in the fed state:
l. The triacylglycerols of chylomicrons (produced from dietary
fat) and VLDL (produced from glucose by the liver) are
hydrolyzed in capillaries by lipoprotein lipase --+ Glycerol and
fatty acids.
2. fatty acids and glycerol are taken up by adipose tissue --+
Triacylglycerols ~ Stored.
C. The fate of amino acids in the fed state: Amino acids from
dietary proteins enter cells and are used for:
I. Protein synthesis:
Z. Synthesis of nitrogenous compounds such as heme, creatine,
phosphate, epinephrine and the bases of DNA and RNA.
3. Oxidation to generate ATP (Amino acid _. a-Ketoa!!ids _.
Oxidation _. Energy).

II. THE FASTING (STARVATION) STATE:


A. Introduction:
I. Starvation may result from:
a) Inability to obttin food.
b) The desire to lose weight rapidly.
c) In clinical situations in which an individual cannot eat
because of trauma, burns ... etc.
d) A.s a mean of political strike.
2. The recorded time for a man survived while starving was 54
days.
B. Fuel store in human: At the beginning of starvation, the metabolic fuels
available in a normal 70 Kg man are shown in the following table and figure:
Sto~dfuel Tissue Amount Kcal
Glycogen Liver and muscles 470grams 1880
Fats Adipose tissue 15kg 141000
Proteins Muscles 6kg 24000
Glucose Body fluids e.g. blood 20grams Bo
Integration of Metabolism 163

Note: energy production from different food stuffs is as follows:


• Carbohydrates: 4 Kcal/g.
• Proteins: 4 Kcalfg.
• Fat: 9 Kcalfg.

!!2!!!!!.
11 Ko:24,000 kc•t

MefaboDc fuels available In a 70.kg


man at the beginning of a fast.

C.Mechanism of energy supplies:


I. As blood glucose levels decrease + .J, insulin and t glucagon +
stimulating the release of fuels into the blood.
2. The liver supplies glucose and ketone bodies to the blood.
The liver maintains blood glucose levels by glycogenolysis and
gluconeogenesis and synthesizes ketone bodies from fatty acids
supplied by adipose tissue.
3. Adipose tissue: triacylglycerols + releases fatty acids and
glycerol. The fatty acids will undergo:
a) In tissues + Oxidized to C02 and H20 + Energy.
b) In liver:
(i) Fatty acid + Acetyl CoA + ketone bodies.
(ii) Glycerol + gluconeogenesis.
4. Muscles release amino acids. The carbon skeletons are used by
the liver for gluconeogenesis, and the nitrogen is converted to
urea.
Oraby's illustrated reviews of biochemistry 164

Gut
1
/~ (acelltl
Glucagon
I

0 Portal win

Sources of energy In early fasting states (mainly by glycogenolysis).

D.Liyer in starvation:
I. Carbohydrate metabolism: The liver maintains blood glucose levels first
by glycogen breakdown (glycogenolysis), then gluconeogenesis:
a) Increased glycogen breakdown (glycogenolysis): t glucagon and .J.
insulin + rapid mobilization of liver glycogen + Blood glucose. Note that
liver glycogen is formed 3-4 hours after meal and is nearly exhausted
after 18 to 24 hours of fasting,
b) Increased gluconeogenesis:
(i) The carbon skeletons for gluconeogenesis are derived primarily
from amino acids, glycerol and lactate.
(ii) Gluconeogenesis begins 4 to 6 hours after the last meal and
becomes fully active, after 18 to 24 hours (after exhaustion of
liver glycogen).
(iii) Gluconeogenesis plays an essential role in maintaining blood
glucose during both overnight and prolonged fasting.
Integration of Metabolism 165

2. Fat metabolism :
a) Increased fatty acid oxidation: The oxidation of fatty acids derived
from adipose tissue is the major source of energy in hepatic tissue in the
post absorptive state.
b) Increased synthesis of ketone bodies:
(I) Liver is the site of synthesis and release of ketone bodies for use as
fuels by peripheral tissues. Ketone bodies synthesis is increased
when the concentration of acetyl CoA, produced from fatty acid
metabolism exceeds the oxidation capacity of Krebs' cycle.
(U) The availability of circulating ketone bodies is important in
starvation because they can be used as fuel by most tissues including
brain.

E. Adipose tissue in starvation:


I. Carbohydrate metabolism:
a) Inhibition of glucose transport: into the adipocyte and its subsequent
metabolism. This is due to low levels of circulating insulin. This leads to
decrease in fatty acid and triacylglycerol synthesis.
2. Fat metabolism:
a) Increased degradation oftriacylg)ycerols:
(i) 'tGlucagon and J.insulin and the release of epinephrine and
norepinephrine + Activation of hormone sensitive lipase + t
Increased degradation of triacylglycerols.
(ii) Increased release of fatty acids:
);1- Fatty acids obtained from hydrolysis of stored triacylglycerol are
released into the blood + They bound to albumin and
transported to various tissues for use as fuel.
);1- The glycerol produces after triacylglycerol degradation + Liver
+ gluconeogenesis + Glucose.

F. Skeletal muscles in starvation:


I. Carbohydrate metabolism:
.1. Insulin + J, Glucose transport into muscle cells -+ J. Glucose oxidation.
2. Fat metabolism:
a) During the first two weeks of starvation, the muscle uses fatty acids from
adipose tissue and ketones from the liver as fuel.
b) After about 3 weeks of starvation, muscle decreases its use of ketones and
oxidizes fatty acids almost exclusively. This leads to a further increase in
the already elevated level of circulating ketone bodies ..
Oraby's Illustrated 18views of biochemistry 166

3. Protein metabolism:
a) During the first few days of starvation, there is a rapid breakdown of muscle
protein providing amino acids that are used by the liver for
gluconeogenesis. After several weeks of starvation, the rate of muscle
breakdown decreases due to a decline in the need for glucose as a fuel for
the brain.

G. Brain and starvation:


I. During the first days of starvation, the brain continues to use glucose
exclusively . Blood sugar is maintained by hepatic gluconeogenesis from
amino acids provided by the rapid breakdown of muscle protein.
2. In prolonged starvation (greater than 2-3 weeks), plasma ketones reach
markedly elevated levels and are used as a fuel by the brain. This reduces the
need for protein catabolism for gluconeogenesis.

Sources of energy In late tasting states (mainly by gluconeogenesis).


Integration of Metabolism 167

H. Summary of starvation:
I. The metabolic changes that occur during starvation ensure that all tissues
have an adequate supply of fuel molecules.
2. the following diagram summarizes the inter tissue relationship during
starvation.

f
I+---+-+-----
r~~,_~~,_,_,_ __ i
1 l

r I
Chapter 5 Cancer, Oncoaenes, 'Tumor
:M.ar~rs ana apoptosis

1. Introduction:
A. Cancer cells: are characterized by 3 properties:
1. Diminished control of growth.
2. Invasion of local tissues.
3. Spread (metastasis) to the other parts of the body.
B. Benign tumor cells: are also characterized by 3 properties:
1. Diminished control of growth.
2. Do not invade local tissues.
3. Do not spread to the other parts of the body.
C. Cancer is the second most common cause of death In the USA after
cardio vascular diseases. In Egypt, no statistical data about this issue
is available.

11. Causes of cancer: Cancer may be caused by:

a)Agents: Radiant energy, chemical compounds, and viruses.


b)Oncogenes: which are genes capable of causing cancer.

A. Agents that cause cancer:


1. Radiant energy (Radiation) :
a) Ultraviolet rays, x-rays and r-rays.
b) They cause cancer through:
1) Direct effects on DNA -.DNA damage --. Cancer
formation.
2) Formation of free radicals e.g. superoxide --. DNA damage
--. Cancer formation.
2. Chemicals:
About 80% of human cancer are caused by environmental factors,
principally chemicals. Exposure to such compounds can occur by:
a) Pollution.
b) Occupation: e.g. exposure to benzene, asbestos.

-168-
Cancer, Oncogenes, and Tumor Markers 169

c) Diet: Aflatoxin 81, which is produced by the mold Aspergillus


flavus and sometimes food.
d) Life style e.g. cigarette smoking.

B. Oncogenes:
Human genome contains two classes of genes:
1. Oncogenes: which are genes that promote development of cancer
(tumors).
2. Tumor suppressor gene: which are genes that suppress the
development of cancer (Tumors).

Oncogenes
1. Definitions:
A. Proto-oncogenes (C-oncogenes):
These are normal genes (about 100) present in human genome. They
have specific functions in cell growth and differentiation.
B. Oncogenes:
These are abnormal genes. They are mutant (altered) proto-
oncogenes. They can lead to malignant tumors.

11. Mechanisms of transformation of proto-oncogenes Into


oncogenes: This can be done by 5 mechanisms:
A. Promotor insertion:
When certain viruses infect cells, a viral DNA copy (eDNA) is
synthesized by reverse transcriptase and this eDNA is integrated in
the host genome. These inserted new eDNA act as promoter of
transcription of pro-oncogene + oncogene.
B. Enhancer Insertion:
Here the viruses that infect cells produce eDNA that act as enhancer
(stimulator), which stimulates DNA for transcription.
C. Chromosomal translocatlons: (Chromosomal rearrangements):
1. A piece of one chromosome is splitted off and then joined to
another chromosome.
2. If the second chromosome donates material to the first, the
translocation is said to be reciprocal.
3. Example of chromosomal translocation:
a) Philadelphia chromosome (involving chromosomes 9 and 22) +
chronic granulocyclic leukemia.
Cancer, Oncogenes, and Tumor Markers 170

b) Chromosomal translocation of chromosomes 8 and 14 + cancer


of human B-lymphocytes + Burkett's lymphoma.

Chromosome 9

lu
Break
>

Chromosome 22 ~~ ~
• Break
>

Chromosomal Rearrangement

D. Gene amplification:
1. This Is an Increase In number of copies of normal proto-oncogene
within the cell e.g. genes for certain enzymes e.g. dlhydrofolate
reductase.
2. Amplification results In:
a) An increase of enzyme activity + Resistance to certain anti-
• malignant drugs as methotrexate.
b) AmplificatiOJ:'I may play a role in the progression of tumor cells
to a more malignant state.
c) Such amplification may produce several hundred copies of the
protooncogenes in the tumor cell e.g. oncogene myc in
neuroblastoma and oncogene c-erb 82 In breast cancer. Each
of amplified copies ~ Proteins ~ Alter cell growth ~ Cancer
development.
Cancer, Oncogenes, and Tumor Markers 171

of amplified copies -+ Proteins -+ Alter cell growth -+ Cancer


development.

plified
gene

E. Single point mutation:


Sometimes a single point mutation of proto-oncogene in human cells
leads to production of mutant protein -+ Affects G-protein in cell
membrane -+ Affect adenylyl cyclase -+ affect hormonal action -+
cancer:

Inactive

......... Hydrolysis ~
........~
.. _ ------ .,. ,
ofGTP , ....
!'Ill"'

Stimulate cell
proiireratioD

1. C-ras proto-oncogene from normal human cells and e-ras oncogene


from a cancer of human bladder showed that they differed only in
one base --. Amino acid substitution at position 12 of the product
protein --. This change affects protein conformation and diminishes
its activity as GTPase.
2. The lowered activity of GTPase results in chronic stimulation of the
activity of adenylyl cyclase, which leads to a number of effects on
cellular metabolism due to increased amount of cAMP.
Cancer, Oncogenes, and Tumor Markers 172

III. Mechanisms· of action of oncogenes:


A. They may act on key intracellular pathways involved in growth control
e.g. single point mutation may result in a protein that affect mitosis.
B. The product of oncogenes may imitate the action of a polypeptide
growth factor.
C. The product of oncogenes may also imitate an occupied receptor for
growth factor.

IV. Functions of some proto-oncogenes:


A. Synthesis of protein kinase enzyme: One type of proto-
oncogenes called The c-SRC proto-oncogenes codes for synthesis of
cytoplasmic protein kinase. This enzyme helps phosphorylation of
some proteins changing its activity.
B. Formation of growth factors: Some proto-oncogenes code for
synthesis of proteins in the form of growth factors and growth factor
receptors.
C. Regulation of gene expression: Some proto-oncogenes (c-Jun
proto-oncogenes) act as regulator genes that regulate gene
expression.
D. Synthesis of protein that binds GTP: Some proto-oncogenes
(e-ras-proto-oncogenes) code for synthesis of protein that binds GTP.
GTP acts as first messenger for some hormones.

v. Growth factors:
A. Growth factors are polypeptides exert a mitogenic response on their
target cells.
B. They affect many different types of cells e.g. blood cells, nervous
system, mesenchymal tissues and epithelial tissues.
C. Growth factors act in an endocrine. paracrlne or autocrlne
manner?
1. Endocrine manner: like hormones, they may be synthesized
elsewhere in the body and pass in circulation to their target cells.
2. Paracrlne manner: they may be synthesized in certain cells and
secreted from them to affect neighboring cells. However the cells
that synthesized the growth factors are not themselves affected,
because they lack suitable receptors.
Cancer, Oncogenes, and Tumor Markers 173

3. Autocrine manner: cells that synthesize growth factors have


receptors for them or they are secreted inside cells and directly
stimulate various processes.
D. Mode of action of growth factors:
Growth factors bind with specific cell receptors on the plasma
membrane of target cells forming growth factor receptor complex. This
causes:
1. Phosphorylation of target proteins in the cytoplasm.
2. The growth factor- receptor complexes are subjected to
endocytosis in coated vesicle (like LDL) ~ rapid activation of
certain cellular proto-oncogene ~ Oncogenes.

VI. Tumor suppressor genes (anti-oncogenes):


A. Definition: these are genes that suppress cancer (tumor) formation.
1. Their protein product inhibits mitosis.
2. These genes have a recessive effect at the cell level i.e. one
normal allele is sufficient to prevent tumor formation even if the
second allele has been inactivated or lost.
3. Oncogenes, by contrast, behave as dominants i.e. one defective
allele can predispose the cell to tumor formation even if the
second allele is normal.

B. Examples of tumor suppressor genes:


1. RB gene (retinoblastoma gene):
a) Retinoblastoma is a cancerous tumor of the retina. It occurs in
two forms:
1) Familial retinoblastoma: Multiple tumors in the retinas of
both eyes occurring in the first weeks of infancy.
2) Sporadic retinoblastoma: Single tumor appears in one
eye sometimes in early childhood before the retina is fully
developed.
b) Causes of retinoblastoma:
1) Familial retinoblastoma:
Occurs when the fetus inherits from one of its parents a
chromosome (number 13) that contains a deleted or
mutated RB gene. Then after birth, mutation of the
remaining RB gene (somatic mutation) will remove the
inhibition provided by RB protein (p11 oR 81 ) ~
Retinoblastoma.
Cancer, Oncogenes, and Tumor M arkers 174

Nonnal ctromosome 13 Ctromosome 13 wth RB k>cus


dekKed

Nonnal retinal n.tlnal cell at AeHnoblastoma


cell rtsk cell

2) Sporadic Retinoblastoma:
In th is d isea se, bo t h inheri ted RB gene s are norma l but
later in life after birth , both genes undergo somatic
mu ta tion (often a deletion) ~ Retinobla sto m a.
c) In both forms of th e disease , the patient's life can be saved if
t he tumor(s) is detected soon e nough and the affec t ed eye(s)
removed .
53
2. P gene:
a) It is a tumor suppressor gene. Its pro t ein product is 53
kilodaltons (hence the name).
b) S it e : s ho rt arm of chromosome 17 in somatic and ga metogenic
cells.
c) It prevents the formation of some tumors . Its mutation may le ad
to:
1) Cancer lung.
2) Cancer b reas t.
3) Cancer colon.
53
3. Mechani sm of act ion of p prot e in:
a) Regulat ion of cel l division: P 53 acts as activator for
tra nscription , regul ating certain genes involved in ce ll division.
b) Control of DNA damage and repair: If excess damage to DNA
has occu r red ~ in creased p53 ~ Inhib iti on of ce ll divis ion and
al lowing time for repair.
c) Protection against vira l in fection: P 53 binds wi th specific
virus pro teins, forming co mpl ex that inhibits vira l activity.
d) P 5 3 has a role in apoptosis: Apoptosis is a programmed ce ll
death cont roll ed by specific gene. St imulation of this gene ~
Cancer, Oncogenes, and Tumor Markers 175

Rapid death of the cells. p 53 participate and stimulate


apoptosis by unknown mechanism.

lfumor !M.arkJrs
I. INTRODUCTION:
A. Definition:
Tumor markers are biologic substances synthesized and released
by cancer cells; or produced by the host cells in response to the
presence of cancerous tissue.
B. Site:
Tumor markers may be present in circulation, in body fluids or
associated with cells: In the cytoplasm or on cell membrane.
c. Structure:
Tumor markers may be enzymes, hormones, and proteins (tumor
antigen).

II. Clinical Importance of ideal tumor marker:


Ideally, tumor marker should provide the following uses in patients having
cancer:
A. Detection of tumors.
B. Screening: the asymptomatic population.
C. Diagnosis: the symptomatic patients, and differentiating malignant
from benign conditions.
D. Staging: the disease, by defining extent of the diseases.
E. Monitoring: the response of the therapy.
F. Assessing prognosis.
G. Detecting recurrence: Early detection of disease recurrence.

Ill. Properties of ideal tumor markers:


A. Have high disease sensitivity i.e. it should be positive in all
patients with particular cancer.
B. Have high disease specificity i.e. it should be negative in all
normal population.
C. Its level reflects the stage of the disease.
D. Its level must be stable i.e. not subjected to marked fluctuation in
stable disease state.
Cancer, Oncogenes, and Tumor Markers 176

E. Organ specific I.e. positive only In certain organ tumor.

Unfortunately, no tumor marker available can fulfill all these


criteria for Ideal marker.

IV. Types of tumor markers: They are divided Into 2 types cellular
and humoral.
A. Cellular (tissue) tumor markers:
They include antigens located on the cell membrane or
intra cellular components as oncogenes.
B. Humoral (serum) tumor markers:
1. These are substances, which can be detected in serum.
2. They are usually synthesized and excreted by tumor cells or
released on tumor disintegration or formed as a result of
reaction of the organism to a tumor.

v. Classification of tumor markers:


Tumor markers can be classified Into hormones, enzymes and
tumor antigens:
A. Hormones:
1. Example of hormones that are used as tumor markers are: ATCH,
AOH, calcitonin, HCG, PTH, growth hormone and prolactin.
2. The production of hormones in cancer involves two separate
routes:
a) An excess produc~ion of a hormone by the endocrine tissue that
normally produces it.
b) A hormone may be produced at a distant site by a non-
endocrine tissue that normally does not produce the hormone.
This condition is called "entopic syndrome".
B. Enzymes:
1. An increase in an enzyme or isoenzymes is not specific or
sensitive enough to be used for Identifying the type of cancer or
the specific organ involvement.
2. Example of enzymes that are used as tumor markers are: alkaline
phosphatase and prostatic acid phosphatase (PAP).
Cancer, Oncogenes, and Tumor Markers 177

c. Tumor antigens:
1. Oncofetal antigens:
a) These are proteins produced normally during fetal life. They
are present In high concentration In the sera of fetuses and
decrease to low levels or disappear after birth.
b) In cancer patients, these proteins re-appear.
c) The production of these proteins demonstrates that certain
genes are reactivated as the result of the malignant
transformation of cells.
d) They include carclnoemryonic antigen (CEA) and a-fetoprotein
(AFP).
2. Other tumor antigens:
a) Carbohydrate antigen 19.9 (CA 19.9).
b) Cancer antigen 125 (CA125).
c) Cancer antigen 15.3 (CA 15.3 ).
d) Cancer anfigen 50 (CA 50).
e) Cancer antigen 27.4 (CA 27.4 ).
f) Squamous carcinoma antigen (SCCA).
g) Prostatic specific antigen (PSA).
h) Tissue polypeptide antigen {TPA).
3. Proteins:
a) 82 macroglobulin.
b) Ferritin.

Classification of tumor markers:


Class of markers Examples Tumor source
Tumor antigens a- Fetoproteln (AFP) Hepatoma -teratoma
carclnoemryonlc antigen (CEA) Cancer of breast colon lung.
Cancer antigen 15.3 (CA 15.3) Breast cancer
Cancer antiaen 125 (CA 125) Ovarian cancer
Cancer antigen 19.9 CCA 19.9) Pancreatic cancer
Cancer antigen 72.4_(CA 72.4) Gastric cancer
Cancer antigen 50 (CA 50) Pancreatic carcinoma
Cancer antigen 549 (CA 549) Breast carcinoma
Sauamous carcinoma antigen Cervix of the uterus
Prostatic specific antigen Prostate cancer
(PSA)
Tissue polypeptide antigen Breast and bladder cancer
CTPA)
MCA Breast - Ovarian
Hormones ACTH Carcinoma of lung, colon,
prostate and ovary
Calcitonin Medullary carcinoma of thyroid
Prolactin Cancer lung
Parathyroid hormone (PTH) Parathyroid tumors
Cancer, Oncogenes, and Tumor Markers 178

Enzymes Prostatic acid phosphatase Prostatic carcinoma


(PAPl
Alkaline phosphatase cancer liver & GIT
Neuron specific enolase (NSE) Small cell bronchial carcinoma
and neuroblastoma
Proteins B2· Macroglobulin Lymphoma and multiple
m_y_eloma
Ferritin wide variety of tumors, e.g.
human breast cancer and
renal cell carcinoma

VI. Examples of some clinically important tumor markers:


A. AFP (alpha feto protein):
1. This is the major serum protein In fetus.
2. It is synthesized by yolk sac, liver and GIT.
3. AFP level increases in cancers as cancer testes and hepatic
carcinoma.
B. CEA (carcino embryonic antigen) :
1. A glycoprotein synthesized by tumor cells and normal colonic
epithelium.
2. It is carried on the cell surface membrane and normally sheds with
feces.
3. In cancer it sheds in serous fluids.
4. Raised level is non specific:
a) It is detected in 65% of co/orectal cancer i.e. cancer of colon
and rectum.
C. PSA (Prostatic specific antigen) :
1. Widely accepted tumor marker in prostatic cancer.
2. Glycoprotein produced only by prostatic epithelial cells and it is
organ specific.
3. Normal level: 0-4 ng/ml
4. Elevated Level {> 4nglml) occurs In :
a) 65% of localized prostatic cancer.
b) 40 % of benign prostatic hypertrophy.
D. Thyroid : (Calcitonin):
1. First degree relatives of patients with medullary thyroid carcinoma
can be screened by measuring calcitonin levels (20% of these
carcinomas have a familial history).

E. HCG (Human chorionic gonadotropin):


1. Produced by placenta, and used for detection of pregnancy ..
2. Reaching maximum level at 81h week of gestation.
3. It is produced also by abnormal trophoblasic tissue.
4. it is composed of alpha nonspecific and beta specific subunits.
Cancer, Oncogenes, and Tumor Markers 179

5. It increases in chorion carcinoma and can detect a tumor mass of 1


mg.
Tumor markers guide:
Breast Prostate
CA 15.3 PSA
CEA PAP
Ovary Uterus
CA 125 CEA
CEA CA 125
HCG
AFP
Cervix uteri Testes
CEA AFP
SCC-A HCG
Liver Stomach
AFP CA 72.4
CEA
Pancreas Urinary bladder
CA 19.9 TPA
CEA CEA
AFP
Lung Thyroid
CEA Calcitonin
NSE CEA
ThvroQiobulin
Colorectum Leukemia
CEA P2M
CA 19.9 LDH
Lymphoma Multiple meyloma
P2M P2M
LDH

}lpoptosis
For every cell, there is a time to live and a time to die

1. Definitions:
A. Apoptosls Is a Greek word means: [apo = away from + ptosis =fall].
B. Apoptosls is a programmed cell death or "cell suicide". It is the
body's normal method of ending the life cycle of cells through the
cellular self-destruction.
C. Apoptosls leads to the elimination of cells without releasing harmful
substances Into the surrounding area.
D. The cell shrinks, dissolves its contents, and activates phagocytosis by
neighboring cells.
E. If apoptosls Is affected, then the cell will not die, causing a
malignant condition.
Cancer, Oncogenes, and Tumor Markers 180

11. Importance of apoptosls:


A. The formation of the fingers and toes of the fetus requires the
removal, by apoptosis, of the tissue between them.
B. The sloughing off of the Inner lining of the uterus (the
endometrium) at the start of menstruation occurs by apoptosis.
C. Programmed cell death is needed to destroy cells that represent a
threat to the Integrity of the organism.
D. Cells Infected with viruses (e.g. AIDS). One of the methods by
which c lymphocytes kill virus-infected cells is by inducing apoptosis.

Ill. The Mechanisms of Apoptos/s: There are 3 different mechanisms


by which a cell commits suicide by apoptosis:
A. Through binding of death activators to receptors at the cell
surface e.g. tissue necrosis factor (TNF-a).
B. Through triggering by dangerous reactive oxygen species.
C. Through signals arising within the cell.

1. Upon receiving specific signals instructing the cells to undergo


apoptosis,a number of distinctive changes occur in the cell.

2. A family of proteins known as caspases are typically activated in


the early stages of apoptosis. These proteins breakdown or cleave
key cellular components that are required for normal cellular
function Including structural proteins in the cytoskeleton and
nuclear proteins such as DNA repair enzymes.

3. The caspases can also activate other degradative enzymes such as


DNases, which begin to cleave the DNA in the nucleus.
Chapter 6 1formones

I. Definition:
A. Hormones are organic compounds produced by the endocrine
system and secreted directly into the blood to act near to their
site of release or at a distant organ in the body.
B. The 4tndocrlne system Is all the hormones producing tissues.

II. General functions of hormones:


A. Regulation of metabolism: Hormones affect the metabolism of
carbohydrate, protein, lipids and minerals, directing their
synthesis, storage, mobilization and utilization according to
needs.
B. Growth: The growth of bones, viscera and various types of
tissues Is under the control of hormones.
C. Homeostasis: Hormones help the maintenance of Internal
environment.

-181-
Oraby's illustrated reviews of biochemistry 182

D. Behaviour: Hormones have an important role in behaviour. Fear,


depression and sex behaviour are due to several natural hormonal
factors.
E. Reproduction: Reproductive organs are highly sensitive to
hormones.

Ill. Classification of hormones:


Hormones are classified according to chemical composition,
solubility properties and mechanism of action.

011 s:Vcatton of hormones a, rnachluisrn of 8Cian.


Graup L Honnol• that bind to lntr8ollhdar....,......
EsbogaiiS Calcitriol (1.25(0HJ.-C,)

Group D. ~that bind to OIIIIU1'fMe receptors


A. The - . d mllllllllf' a. cAMP.
Adr•KICOflkaror*: honnalle (ACTH) Parathyroid honnone (PTH)
Al'l)kllllllin II Opiolds
Antldintic honnolle (ADH) Acelylcholine
FoliciHIIrnulaf honnolle (FSH) GlucagoA
Hunwl c:florionlc gonadDCiapin (hCG) a.-Adl•llfgic catecholaninas
UpaO-(LPH) CorticcCiopi H'Biaaai.IIJ hannoll8 (CAH)
IJdliillllg honnolle (LH) C8ldtollin
~ honnoll8 (MSH) Sorna!oslalin
~ honnoll8 (TSH) IS-Adrenergic c:atectlolamines
a. The-.dm••••llllf'a.cGIIP.
Alrilll nllriurellc factor (ANF)
C. The - . d ••••1181f a. c:alc:lum or~ (or bo111):
ca 1-Adleuarglc catecflolaminas Acatylc:holine (muscarinic)
~lin Oxytocin
Gaslrtn Gonadobop~nofflleasing hormall8 (GnRH)
s.atance p Angiotensli1JJ
ThJ•l*apiH'IIaaing hannoll8 (TRH)
Vasop~us·,,

D. TN ............. mllllnglf a. unknown:


Chononic samatomammotrop (CS)
Gtowth hannanl (GH) Nerve gtoWih fador (NGF)

lnsuliNire growth faclors (IGF·I, IGF..JI) Fibroblast growth factor (FGF)


Pialactin (PRU Platelet-derived growth factor
Hormones 183

A. Classification according to the chemical composition:


1. Amino acid derivatives: Such as thyroid hormones (T 3 , T 4 ),
epinephrine, nor epinephrine and serotonin.
2. Polypeptides: Such as pituitary hormones e.g. oxytocin, ADH,
ACTH.
3. Proteins and glycoprotein&: Such as Insulin, growth hormone,
TSH, LH, FSH, parathyroid hormone, prolactin etc.
4. Steroids: Such as adrenal cortical hormones, sex hormones:
estrogens, progesterone and androgens.
B. Classification according to the mechanism of action: There
are 2 groups:
1. Group 1: Includes hormones that bind to the Intracellular
receptors.
2. Group II: Includes hormones that bind to cell surface
receptors.
3. Characters of group I and II:
Group I Group II
Types Steroids T3-T4 and Amino acid derivatives,
catecholamine& polypeptides, proteins and
glycoprotein&.
Solubility Hydrophobic Hydrophilic
Plasma Present (to help solubility Absent
transport and transport In plasma)
protein
Plasma half life Minutes and hours Short (minutes)
Receptors Intracellular Present In cell Membrana
Mediator Receptor-hormone complex cAMP, calcium and other

C. Mechanism of action of group 1: Hormones that bind


Intracellular receptors :
1. The hormone diffuses through the cell membrane of the target
cells and binds to specific receptors protein In the cytosol or
the nucleus, forming a complex:
2. The hormone-receptor complex then undergoes activation
reaction, which leads to change In size, conformation and
surface charge of this complex, making It able to bind to DNA
at specific region called "hormone response element "(HRE).
3. The hormone-receptor complex In this position will activate or
Inactivate the promoter element; PE (which Is a part of DNA
that determines the Initiation of the transcription). This will
affect the transcription of specific genes, and production of
mRNA and protein molecules.
Oraby's illustrated reviews of biochemistry 184

4. Therefore. the amount of specific proteins Is changed


(Increased or decreased) and metabolic process Is Influenced.
CELL MEMBRANE
CYTOPLASII

NUCLEUS

A+~

/
~==

atRNA
.,....protein
·~
........,......
Mechonlstn of action of~ I hMnOnu: (binding with lntrcacdlulor receptors).

D. Mechanism of action of aroup II: Hormones that bind to cell


surface receptors:
1. A hormone (first Subc:lasslftcalion or group II. A hormones.
messenger) binds to a Hormones That SUmulale Honnonea n.t Inhibit
A~Hr--
specific receptor Adenyl!te ~ciao
(Hs)
located In th9 cell
ACTH Acetylcholine
membrane to activate a AOH a 2 ·AdreneriJ1CS
(JAdrenerga AngiOtensan II
second messenger calcitonin Oploida
which Is located In the CRH Somatostatin
FSH
cytosol. Glucagon
2. The second messenger hCG
LH
may be one of the LPH
MSH
following molecules PTH
cyclic AMP (cAMP). TSH

cyclic GMP (cGMP). calcium or phospholipids.


3. Hormones use cAMP as the second messenger:
s) These hormones are subclassified Into:
1) Hormones that stimulate adenylate cyclase and
promote cAMP formation.
2) Hormones that Inhibit adenylate cyclase and stop cAMP
formation.
Hormones 185

b) Hormones that stimulate adenylate cyclase do so by:


1) Hormone binds to cell membrane receptors which are
called stimulatory receptors (R 8 ), forming a hormone
receptor complex.
2) This complex in the presence of GTP will activate
another regulatory protein, which is called stimulatory
protein (G 8 ).
3) This stimulatory protein (G 8 ) is composed of 3
subunits, a, J3 and y , and the reaction occurs as
follows:

Regulatory protein ::;,;:=:::G::::T::P=~,_ active regulatory protein + py


( a., ....
n , y) GTPase (a.s -GTP)

4) u8 • GTP complex will stimulate adenylate cyclase


enzyme present at the inner surface of the cell
membrane.
5) Then active adenylate cyclase will convert ATP into
cAMP (second messenger) in the cytosol.
6) Cyclic AMP will stimulate an enzyme called protein
kinase. This enzyme is composed of 4 subunits: 2
regulators (R) and 2 catalytic (C). The whole protein
kinase Is Inactive, but binding of cAMP with the enzyme
dissociates R from C and activating it.

GTP GTP

s,f ~ *i-~-~ 7 e
SGTP

>
~~
if~
~a
0l
~
\J J
~-
I
I
I?

__e_m_b_ra_n_e------------~~~----------------------
_M
Cytosol '\/
~
ATP cAMP

Mechanism of action of hormones that stimulate adenylate cyclase.


7) The active C subunits (active protein kinase )catalyses
Oraby's illustrated reviews of biochemistry 186

the transfer of phosphate group (phosphorylation) from


ATP to many enzyme:
I· Some phosphorylated enzymes become active e.g.
phosphorylase, hormone sensitive trlacylglycerol
lipase.
II· Some other phosphorylated enzymes become
inactive e.g. glycogen synthase.

lmlctlve
protein
kinase
ILI=\::1
ATP
GTP
Hclrmone-t_ R..,.,
!KcAM,~
Adlnylau
pnJtlin cycle.

~ M2SfHNfi1MIII
~
CELL 5'-AMP
MEMBRANE
R

+
AotM
2~=-
~--
~VT
......
Pho~Dha-. Pllplolllllo

Homones that stimulate adenylate cyclase.

c) Hormones that Inhibit adenylate cyclase do so by the same


previous mechanism using:
1) Cell membrane inhibiting receptors (R 8 ).
2) Regulatory Inhibiting protein (0 1).
3) The resulting a1 - GTP will Inhibit activation of
adenylate cyclase (see the figure).

4. Hormones use cGMP as the second messenger:


a) There is only one hormone uses cyclic GMP as a second
messenger which Is atrial natriuretic factor (ANF),
produced by arteries of the heart.
b) Mechanism of action :
1) ANF (first messenger) binds to the cell membrane
receptors, forming a hormone-receptor complex.
2) This complex activates guanylate cyclase enzyme
present In the cell membrane, which In turn converts
GTP Into cGMP (second messenger) in the cytosol.
Hormones 187

3) cGMP will activate cGMP-dependent protein kinase


which In turn phosphorylate& a number of proteins
causing the functions of ANF to start, which are:
I· Relaxation of smooth muscles and vasodilatation.
II· Excess excretion of sodium (natriuresis).
Ill· Excess excretion of water (diuresis).
5. Hormones use calcium and phospholipids as a second
messenger:
a) Hormone (first messenger) binds with the receptor forming
hormone-receptor complex.
b) This complex, In the presence of G protein will activate
phospholipase c enzymes.
c) Active phospholipase c will cause :
1) Stimulation of calcium entry (Influx) through the cell
membrane (by increasing Na•tca.. and H•t ca••
exchange).
2) Conversion of phosphatldyl Inositol diphosphate (PIP 2 )
Into diacylglycerol and Inositol triphosphate:

CH 2 -COOR
CH -COOR
CH 2 -0H
Diac:ylglyc:erol

Inositol
~:0 ~
triphosphate (!)

I· Diacylglycerol in the presence of ca•• will stimulate


protein kinase c enzyme which In turn
phosphorylates and activates some enzymes.
II· Inositol triphosphate will Increase calcium release
from cellular organelles and mitochondria and
endoplasmic reticulum :
• The released calcium will activate specific
protein called: calmodulin.
• Active calmodulin will stimulate specific
calmodulin kinase and multifunctional calmodulin
kinase which in turn phosphorylate and activate
some proteins (enzymes).
Oraby's illustrated reviews of biochemistry 188

6. Calmodulin:
a) Calmodulin Is an intracellular protein of molecular weight
17000.
b) It Is similar to the muscle protein troponln c In structure
and function.
c) Calmodulin has 4 calcium binding sites. Full occupancy of
these sites leads to marked conformational changes and
activation of it.

Endaplamic relic:uiUrll

-~--------_..,

~ "~-~------~!----
c.'·- CalmoiUn :
I
I
I
I

I
''
I
I 1 I

\ ~--------,I '1
I ' -------~'
I

' ' '


Pfotettrs . . . . . . . . . . Ptlospnoplalein
I

'
. PII'JSIOIDglc:al rnpoiiMS

Ca+u.t Ca++
0 +

Calmndnlin
4 Ca++ _ __._a.
Ca
.Active calmoclnl in
0
- - - - • + Calmodulin ~ Physiologic
Ca++ kinase effect

d) Functions of calmodulin:
1) Activation of certain intracellular enzymes important
for metabolism e.g. phosphorylase enzyme of
glycogenolysis.
2) Regulation of the activity of many structural elements
In the cells e.g. actlnomyosin complex of smooth
muscles, cell motility, mitosis, granular release and
endocytosis.
Hormones 189

7 . Hormones with unknown in tra cellular messenger :


a) A l a r ge number of im p ortant hormon es have no id e ntifi e d
i ntrace l lu la r m essenge r. In s ulin i s o n e of these hormon es
(see the table, group II ).

Jfypotlia{amic liormones
I. Introduction:
A. Hypo th a l a mus is a protein of centra l nervous sys tem , lo cated at
th e base of th e brain just a bo ve the pituitary g l a nd .
B . Hypoth a l a mu s sec ret es r e l eas ing hormon es, vasop r ess in (ADH)
a nd oxytocin hormon es.

II. Releasing hormones :


A . Th ese a r e s hort p e ptid e hormon es r e l ease d from h ypoth a lami c
n erve fiber endings a nd reach th e a nte rior lob e of p ituitary
t hro ugh the s p ecia l p ortal syste m that co nn ec t s th e hypothalamus
a nd a nterior pituitary lobe.

neurosecretion hypothalamic nuclei


from the
hypothalamus

hypophyseal
-T-- - - efferent vein

Hypothalamic hormones.
Oraby's illustrated reviews of biochemistry 190

B. Hypothalamic releasing hormones:


Hypothalamic Abbreviation Pituitary Target gland I
hormone Hormone hormone affected
. affected
Corticotropin releasing CRH ACTH Adrenal cortex I
hormone hydrocortison
Thyrotropin releasing TRH TSH(PRL) Thyroid gland I T3 -
hormone T4
Gonadotropin releasing GnRH Testis, ovary/
hormone (LHRH , FSHRH) LH, FSH testosterone,
estrogens and
progesterone.
Growth hormone Growth Liver I somatomedin c
releasing hormone GHRH hormone and others.
(stimulates GH
secretion .
Growth hormone release- Growth
inhibiting hormone GHRIH hormone
(=somatostatin) (inhibits (TSH, FSH,
GH secretion). ACTH)
Prolactin release-
inhibiting PRIH Prolactin
·hormone (inhibits
prolactin
secretion).

C. The function of hypothalamic releasing hormones Is to


regulate the secretion of anterior pituitary hormones.
D. Hpothalamlc hormones are secreted under control of higher
brain centers, anterior pituitary
hormones and final target hormones
(feed back regulation) e.g. TRH
secretion Is inhibited by excess
concentration of TSH, T 3 and T 4 •
E. LH and FSH are controlled by the
concentration of releasing hormone:
gonadotropin-releasing hormone
(GnRH).
F. Prolactin has no releasing hormone ,
but It has 2 releasing Inhibiting
--
,_

hormones:
1. Dopamine.
2. GAP (gonadotropin releasing
Hormones 191

hormone assoc ia ted peptide) which Is found to Inhibit



prolactin, FSH and LH.
G. Many of h ypotha l amic hormones In particular TRH , CRH and
somatostatin are fond In othe r portions of the nervou s sys tem and
In a variety of peripheral tissues .

Ill. Antidiuretic hormone [ADH (vasopress in)] a nd oxytocin:


A . Pr ec ursors of these
h ormones are sy nth esize d
cells In the hypothal a mus
(pa r ave n tricular and
s upr aoptic nu c l e i ) a nd
tr ave l fr om the
h ypotha l a m us through
axons that terminate in th e
posterior lob e of the
pituitary .
B. B efore secretio n , the large
prec ur so r molecule s are
cleaved to give the pept ide
h ormones: ADH and
oxytocin. C&D. .riee ol nourohypophye••

C. Regylatlon of seW!Oc~~ Sccrelory pathway of neurohypophysu .

0 A.QJ:i:
1. Th e Increased osmolality of th e pla s m a i s th e s timu lu s that
ac ti vates the s upraopti c nucl ei a nd ADH sec r e ti o n .
2. The increase d osmola l ity is m e di ated by osmoreceptors
located in th e hypoth ala mu s and by baroreceptors located in
the h ea rt and othe r r eg ions o f vasc ul a r syste m .
3. Other s timuli i n clude e motiona l , physical s tr ess a nd so me
phar m aco l ogic age n ts as acety l choline, ni co tin e a nd m o rphin e.
D. Mechanism of action of ADH:
1. AD H ac ts on di stal convo lut ed and collecti n g tub ul es of the
kidney causing wa t er reabsorption .
E. Di abetes inslpld..Y.§.:
1. Thi s Is a disease caused by a deficiency of ADH actio n .
2. It is c har ac t e ri ze d by th e excretio n of l a rge volum es of dilute
urin e .
3. Types of diabetes insipidus:
a) Primary diabete s Insipidus:
Oraby's illustrated reviews of biochemistry 192

Deficient ADH Is usually due to destruction of the


hypothalamic-hypophyseal tract from fracture of skull
base, tumour or Infection.
b) Hereditary nephrogenic diabetes Insipidus:
ADH Is secreted normally, but its receptors in kidney
are defective.

F. Regulation of secretion of oxytocin:


1. Stimulation of the nipple is the primary stimulus, which sends a
neural impulse to hypothalamus to secrete oxytocin.
2. Vaginal and uterine distensions are secondary stimuli.
3. Estrogens stimulate while progesterone inhibits the production
of oxytocin.
G. Mechanism of action of oxytocin:
1. Is unknown, but oxytocin causes contraction of uterine smooth
muscles.
2. Oxytocin can be used in pharmacologic amounts to Induce
labour In humans.
3. Oxytocin causes contraction of myoepithelial cells surrounding
the mammary alveoli. This promotes the movement of milk into
the alveolar duct system and allows for milk ejection.

Jl nterior pituitary hormones


I. Definitions snd c/ssslf/cstlon:
A. Anterior pituitary is a part of pituitary gland, which is about 10
mm In diameter. It is located in the brain just behind the optic
chiasma (as an extension from the floor of the hypothalamus). The
average weight of the gland In the male is 0.5-0.6 g; In the female,
It Is slightly larger 0.6- 0. 7 g.
B. The hormones of the anterior pituitary gland (except growth
hormone and prolactin) mainly act on other target, endocrine
glands to stimulate the production or release of peripheral
hormones.

C. Secretion of anterior pituitary hormones is regulated by feed back


regulation by the increase of the concentration of peripheral
hormone either directly or by acting on the hypothalamus.
D. Classification :anterior pituitary gland secretes three hormone
groups:
1. Protein hormone group : It includes:
Hormones 193

a) Growth hormone.
b) Prolactin.
c) Placental lactogen (chorionic somatomammotropln; CS).
2. Glycoprotein hormone group : It Includes:
a) Thyroid stimulating hormones (TSH).
b) Luteinizing hormone (LH).
c) Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH).
d) Chorionic gonadotropin (CG).
3. Pro-oplo-melano-cortln (POMC) peptide group: It includes:
a) ACTH.
b) Melanocyte stimulating hormone (MSH).
c) Jl-llpoproteln.
d) Endorphins.
e) Enkephalln.

II. Protein hormone group :


A. Growth hormone; (GH • Somatotropin):
1. Structure: GH Is a single chain polypeptide consisting of 191
amino acids with molecular weight of about 22,000.
2. Human GH made by recomblnate DNA techniques Is now
available for therapeutic use.
3. Actions:
a) Normal growth: This Is mediated by a substance called :
somatomedln c which Is released from the liver and has
many anabolic effects.
b) Protein synthesis: GH Increases the transport of amino acid
Into muscle cells and Increase protein RNA and DNA
synthesis.
c) Carbohydrate metabolism: GH generally antagonizes the
effects of Insulin , causing hyperglycemia.
d) Lipid metabolism: GH promotes the release of free fatty
acids and glycerol from adipose tissue . It also causes
Increased oxidation of free fatty acids and ketogenesis In
the liver.
e) Mineral metabolism: GH Increases calcium , magnesium and
phosphate absorption and helps their Incorporation In the
skeleton • Thus GH promotes growth of long bones. GH
causes also retention of Na• , K• and 01·.
f) Prolactin like effect : GH binds to lactogenic receptors and
thus has many of the properties of prolactin, such as
stimulation of mammary gland and milk production.
Oraby's illustrated reviews of biochemistry 194

4. Overproduction of GH (gigantism and acromegaly):


a) GH excess usually occurs as a result of acidophillic tumor.
b) Gigantism: is a disease resulting from excessive production
of GH before the closure of epiphyseal plates, where there
Is accelerated growth of the long bones.
c) Acromegally : Is a disease resulting from excessive
production of GH after the colsure of epiphyseal plates and
the cessation of long bones growth.
5. Underproduction of GH (Dwarfism):
a) Deficiency of GH In Infants leads to failure of growth and a
disease called: dwarfism.

B. Prolactin CPRL: Lactogenic hormone. mammotropln.


Luteotropic hormone. LTH):
1. Structure: PRL Is a protein hormone with molecular weight of
about 23,000.
2. Actions: PRL, In combination with estrogens and progesterone,
Initiates and maintains lactation.
3. Galactorrhoea : (discharge of milk from the breast) In both men
and women may be due to a pituitary tumor causing
hyperprolactlnemla , often with low gonadotropins secretion.
C. Chorionic somatomammotropln (CS: Placental lactogen): This
hormone has no definite function In humans. It seems that Its
metabolic effects are similar to growth hormone.

Ill. Glycoprotein hormone group: This group Includes TSH as well


as the gonadotrpins (FSH , LH and hCG).
A. Thyroid stimulating hormone (ISH):
1. It Is glycoprotein formed of 2 polypeptide chains; a, JJ with
molecular weight of 30,000.
2. It acts on thyroid gland, stimulating the synthesis and release
of thyroid hormones(T3, T 4 ).
B. Gonadotropins (FSH. LH and hCG):
1. These hormones are responsible for gametogenesis (I.e.
formation and development of ovum In females and
spermatozoon In males) and steroidogenesis (i.e. formation of
steroid hormones) In ovary and testis.
2. Gonadotropins are glycoprotein& with a molecular weight of
about 25,000.
Hormones 195

3. The mechanism of action of all gonadotropins Is thFough


binding to cell membrane receptors, stimulating adenylate
cyclase and Increasing cyclic AMP.

4. Follicle stlmulstlna hormone IFSHJ:


s) In females, the target cells are the follicular cells In the
ovary where It causes maturation of the ovarian follicles
and release of estrogens.
b) In males, the target cells are the Sertoll cells In the testis
where It stimulates spermatogenesis.
6. Luteinizing hormone (LHJ: also In males sometimes called
Interstitial cell stimulating hormone, IOSH):
B) In females: It stimulates maturation of corpus leteum and
the production of progeateron by lt.
b) In males :It stimulates the production of testosterone by the
Ieydig cells of the testis.
8. Human chorionic gonadotropin lhCGJ.·
B) This hormone Is not formed In the anterior pituitary, but
synthesized In the placenta(ln syncytiotrophoblast cells ).
b) It Ia structurally and biologically very similar to lutehtlzlng
hormone.
c) hOG actions are:
1) Maintaining the functions of corpus luteum during the
first weeks of pregnancy .
2) It stimulates secretion of testosterone In fetus .
d) Pregnancy diagnosis test :
1) hOG blood and urine concentrations are Increased few
days after Implantation of the ovum In the uterus .
2) Detection of hOG In either blood or urine Indicates the
occurrence of pregnancy.

IV.PRO-OPIOMELANOCORTIN (POMC) PEPTIDE GROUP: POMO


Is a peptide formed of 285 amino acids. It acts as a precursor for the
following hormones:
A. Adrenocorticotropic hormone <ACIH):
1. Structure: AOTH Is a single chain polypeptide consisting of 39
amino acids.
2. Actions:
B) AOTH Increases the synthesis and release of actrenal
steroids by enhancing the conversion of cholesterol to
pregnenolone.
Oraby's illustrated reviews of biochemistry 196

b) ACTH Increases adrenal cortical growth (tropic effect) by


enhancing protein and RNA synthesis.
3. Overproduction of ACTH (Cushlng·s syndrome): It Is
manifested by:
a) Hyperplgmentatlon :due to excess associated MSH like
activity.
b) Metabolic manifestation due to excessive production of
adrenal steroid : which includes:
1) Negative nitrogen balance.
2) Deficiency of potassium and phosphrous.
3) Sodium retention which can lead to hypertension.
4) Oedema.
5) Glucose Intolerance and diabetes mellitus.
6) Increased plasma fatty acids, and redistribution of
body fat i.e.truncal obesity.
B. Melanocyte stimulating hormones (MSH):
1. Three types of MSH (a, 13 and y ) are recognized. a-MSH is
derived from ACTH, while 13 & yare derived from 13-llpoproteln.
2. Their action is to stimulate melanogenesis by causing
dispersion of lntracelular melanin granules, resulting in
darkening of the skin.
C. D-Lipotropln ( D-LPH l:
1. P-llpotropin causes lipolysis and fatty acid mobllllzation.
2. It serves as a precursor of p-endorphlns, met-enkephalln and
p & y MSH.
D. Endorphins:
1. p-endorphlns are derived from 13-lipoproteln. a and
endorphins are modifications of 13-endorphins.
2. They act as neurotransmitters by binding to the same CNS
receptors as morphln to cause pain relief and analgesia. Its
analgesia power Is 18-30 times more than morphine.
E. Enkephallns:
1. Enkephalins are POMC
pentapeptlde forming
ACTB P- Lipotropia
of 5 amino acids. I
a-IISB Jl-IISB a -IISB
I

2. Its function Is like


endorphins.
Hormones 197

Higtw ......

I " ~
1/
1-CNS

-- ~==- ~.
-
,..- I I I
MWior poluQty ~~ I

~
//1 \ ~
,..,.,.,. Adl'.no-
conicOtrDC>in
(ACllil
..,.......,no
~
Foil_,.
,.,..,.,.
L.....nmng

(LH)
~" ....,.,.
OtOWI!>

CGHI
O.yU>Cin ~"

(FSH)

I
l
Thylood
l
Jl Adr_, tertn JI
I
Tntas II
I
()Ny
I
I
lu- I
I
ThyrO>IIftO
I
Ad reno-
I
T.......,one
I
Ealrogon,
conlal progeot• one

I I
1...._,_, . .,.,.. _
alefolclo

I
·S..~-
I ll~gla..sll-1
ISoml-1
§ ., ~.,
The hypothalamus - pituitary - target organ relationship.

J{ormones of aarena[ corte~


I. CL ASS/FICA TION: ttyd rocarbon "tall"
~

A . The hormones of adrenal corte x which 27

ha v e a biological activity can be


c l ass ifi e d into 3 cla s ses : glucocorticoid s
, min e ralocorticoids and androg e n s .
B. A l l conta in steroid ring and derived from Site of att.ctunent
of hl11y acid In
cholesteryl ester.
cho l esterol.
C. Glucocorticoids and mineralocorticoids
Structure of cholesterol showing site
contain 21 carbon atoms and have 2 of anachment of fatty acid in
cholesteryt esters. , __ ......._,
c arbon side chain at C-17. Androgen s
contain 19 carbon atoms and h a ve keto or hydroxyl group a t C-17.
0. Glucocrticoids and androgens are . { Capsule
s ynth e sized in zona fasciculata and • · --.! - . Zona glomerulosa
· ... . (aldosterone)
zona reticularis , whi l e : .· . : . :: { Zona fasclculata
min e r a l ocorticoid s are synthe s ize d in · .: · · . ·: . (cortisol) )
:: · : · .: : { Zona retlculari.Y
th e s ubcortic a l zona glom e ru l a ri s of
(?androgen?)
adr e nal corte x. { Portal circulation
{Medulla
Oraby's Illustrated reviews of biochemistry 198

II. BIOSYNTHESIS:
A. There is a common metabolic pathway for the biosynthesis of all
steroid hormones. The fllrst step Is the conversion of cholesterol
Into pregnenolone.
1. This reaction Is the rate limiting step In steroidogenesis and
occurs In the mitochondria.
2. This reaction Is activated by AOTH.
3. It needs an enzyme called: cytochrome P-450 side chain
cleavage enzyme (P-450 sec).
4. It requirs NADPH and molecular oxygen.

H C
I I
ACTH • e-c-c-e
(cAMPI )r D \
0 c
(p-450 Sc:c:l
HO HO

Cholesterol Pregnenolone + Isocoprooldehyde

Cholestero side chain cleavage.

B. Pregnenolone Is next oxidized and then Isomerized to


progesterone , and 17-hydroxypregnenolone, both are further
modified by a series of hydroxylation and oxidation reactions to
other steroid hormones.
C. 17-hydroxypregnenolone Is converted - 'into
dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) which Is the main androgen
produced by adrenal cortex. DHEA is then converted by -a
sulfotransferase- to DHEA sulphate, which is then secreted in the
blood.
D. The major steroid hormones secreted by the human adrenal
cortex. are: cortisol, corticosterone, aldosterone and .OHEA
sulphate.
E. Adrenal cortex can synthesize very small amount of testosterone
from DHEA • Also small amount of estrogens can be synthesized
from aromatlzatlon of testosterone.
Hormones 199

,,

.,.,.,.
.....
I - · ·

Ill. PLASMA TRANSPORT:


A. Glucocortlcolds:
1. Cortisol circulates In plasma In free form (8%) and in
association of protein (92%).
2. The free cortisol Is the biologically active form of the hormone.
Oraby's illustrated reviews of biochemistry 200

3. The cortisol blndl~g protein Is c~!led: transcortln or


corticosteroid binding globulin (CBG).
4. Very small amount of cortisol Is bound to albumin.
B. Mlneralocortlcolds: do not have specific plasma transport
protein.

IV. REGULATION (CONTROL) OF SECRETION:


A. Glucocorttcoids:
1. When the body Is stressed, corticotropin releasing hormone
(CRH) Is released by the hypothalamus, which stimulates
anterior pituitary to produce ACTH.
2. ACTH binds with receptors in the cell membrane of zona
faslculata and zona retlcularls. This leads to activation of
adenylate cyclase and conversion of ATP Into cyclic AMP.
3. Cyclic AMP will stimulate formation and secretion of
glucocorticoids.
B. Mlneralocortlcolds:
1. When the body Is subjected to hpotenslon, (decreased renal
perfusion pressure), anoxia or kidney trauma, the kidney
responds by secreting renin hormone.
2. Renin will activate anglotenslnogen Into angiotensin I and II.
3. Angiotlnsin II will stimulate zona retucularls to produce
mlneralocortlcoids (aldosterone) which aact on distal
convoluted tubules of the kidney causing Na• and water
reabsorption and K• excretion.

Hr!JGU~alamu•

CORTIOL ABD IIBTABOLISII


OP GLUCOCOBTICOIDS.

Tlltl~
Tlltlahydlocottlaone
Cottols, cortolones
(moaauroel as w:lnary
17-0H)
Hormones 201

r----•
I
I
I
I
I
Anglctensin II

Convetllng~t
cwyme :
I
'
t
I-~:
COR'fllOL AHD IIBTABOLISII
OF IIINBRALOCORTICOIDS. ")I
I Anglolcn-
lllnogen

'''

I
t UIUI&Iy
alclosle1CM
moi&IIO!ttes

V. METABOLISM AND EXCRETION:


A. Steroid hormones are metabolized in the liver where they are
reduced and conjugated with either glucuronic acid or sulphate.
1. About 20 % to 30 % of those metabolites are secreted into the
bile and then excreted in the feces.
2. The reminder are released into the blood to be excreted by the
kidney with urine. These conjugate metabolites are soluble In
blood or bile and need no carrier proteins.

VI. FUNCTIONS (EFFECTS of CORTICAL HORMONES):


B. Glucocortlcolds; See the following table.
C. Mineralocorticoid&:
1. The most active member of these hormones Is the aldosterone.
2. They act In the kidney to stimulate transport by the distal
convoluted tubules and collecting tubules, leading to Na•
retention.
3. These hormones also promote the secretion of K•, H• and NH 4 •
by the kidney.

VII. Hyper and hypofunction of g/ucocortlcolds and


mlneralocortlcolds:
A. Overproduction of alucocortlcolds (Cushlng·s syndrome);
Discussed before In ACTH.
B. Underproduction of glucocortlcolds tAddlson·s syndrome);
Oraby's illustrated reviews of biochemistry 202

1. It results In hypoglycemia, anoroxla, weight loss, intolerance


to stress and severe weakness.
C. Overproduction of mlneralocortlcolds (Conn·s syndrome):
1. The classical manifestations Include hypertension,
hypokalemia, hypernatremia and alkalosis.

I. EFFECTS ON INTERMEDIARY METABOLISM:


A. Increase glucose production in liver by stimulating gluconeogenesis
(stimulate synthesis of enzymes of gluconeoguis and increase the
delivary of amino acids (the gluconeogenic substrate)from peripheral
tissues).
B. Increase hepatic glycogen deposition by promtlng tho activation of
glycogen synthetase.
C. Promote lipolysis (In extremities) but can cause lipogenesis in other
sites (hoe and trunk) ospeci al y at higher than physi ol ogi o I eve Is.
D. Promote protein and RNA metabolism. This is an anabolic effect at
physiologic levels, but can be catabolic in certain conditions and at
higher than physiologic levels.

II. EFFECTS ON HOST DEFENSE MECHANISMS:


A. Suppress the Immune responce.
B. Suppress tho Inflammatory response by:
1. Decreasing tho number of circulating leukocytes and the migration
of tissue leukocytes .
2. Inhibiting fibroblast proliferation.

Ill. OTHER EFFECTS:


A. Necessary for maintenance of normal blood pressure and cardiac
output.
B. Required for maintenance of normal water and electrolyte balance.
Perhaps by restraining ADH release (H,OJ and by increasing
angi otensinogen ( Na' ). These effects contribute to the effect on blood
pressure.
C. Necessary, with the hormones of the adrenal medulla, in allowing the
organism to respond to stress.

The diverse effects of glucocorticoids.

Jformones of aarena{ metfu{{a


They include catecholamine hormones: epinephrine, norepinephrine
and dopamine (see protein metabolism ).

Jformones ofgonaas
I. The gonads have 2 functions which are production of germ cells and
sex hormones.
A. In males: testes produce spermatozoa and testosterone.
Hormones 203

B. In females: Ovaries produce ova and the steroid hormones


estrogens and progesterone.
II. Male sex hormones (androgens):
A. Androgens are produced by the Leydig cells and the sertoll cells
of the testes.
B. Ovaries produce also androgens in small amounts.
C. Many androgens are produced by the testes, but the most active
members are testosterone and its metabolite dlhydrotestosterone
(DHT).

OH

!Sa-A EDUCT ASE I

INADPHI

Testosterone Oihydrotestol1et'one COHTI

D. Sertoll cells also produce an androgen binding protein (ASP)


which binds tostosterone and dihydrotestosterone . ABP Is
secreted into the lumen of semineferous tubules and In this
position , it binds testosterone (produced by Leydig cells) and
transports It in very high concentration to the site of
spermatogenesis . This explains why testosterone when given as a
drug does not support spermatogenesis.
E. Biosynthesis of androgens:
1. Testosterone Is synthesized from cholesterol by a pathway
similar to that described for steroidogenesis In adrenal cortex.
F. Plasma transport of testosterone:
1. Testosterone and DHT circulate in plasma In free form- (2%)
and In association with proteln(98%).
2. The free testosterone Is the biologically active form of
hormone.
3. The testosterone binding protein Is called: testosterone-
estrogen-binding globulin {TEBG) or sex hormone binding
globulin (SHBG) which Is produced by the liver.
G. Reaulatlon (control) of secretion:
1. LH stimulates steroidogenesis and testosterone production by
binding to receptors on the cell membrane of the Leydig cells
(by a machanlsm similar to that of AOTH in the adrenal cortex).
2. FSH binds to the sertoll cells and promotes the synthesis of
androgen-binding protein (ABP) which binds testosterone and
Oraby's illustrated reviews of biochemistry 204

secreted In the lumen of semineferous tubules. This will


stimulate spermatogenesis.

r-+ I Hypothalamus I
' Gn-RH
I Pituitary I
I Negative

FSH,~H
Negative
feedback
feedback
I
IFree testosterone 1- !+TISSUCS
n ~
p....;.... l-@ ~ ITestosteroae :SHBO I DHT

l
' '
Receptor
I ABPI ITestosterone I ~
Local production
Nucleus

I
'
Spermatoscnesis

The hypothalamic - pituitary-testicular axis.


I
[ Gn-RH - gonadotrophin-releasing honnone, J
SHB6 - Sex honnone binding globulin.

H. Metabolism and excretion: 0


1. The metabolic and products of
testosterone Is 17-ketosterolds
which contain ketone group at 0-17.
The most Important member Is HO
androsterone.
Androsterone
2. Testosterone Is metabolized In liver,
Its metabolites conjugate with sulfate or glucuronate before
excretion In urine.
3. 17-ketosterolds are also end products of androgens of ad_r~nal

cortex.
I. Functions of androgens:
1) The androgens, mainly testosterone and DHT are
involved in the following functions:
2. Sexual differentiation (male or female).
3. Spermatogenesis .
4. Development of secondary sex characters e.g. male voice,
male pattern of hair distribution.
5. Anabolic metabolism and gene regulation.
a) There Is an effect on brain, leading to characteristic male
sexual behaviour and aggressiveness.
Hormones 205

J. Hypogonadism:
1. This Is a c:ondltlon of deficiency of testosterone synthesis .
2. It may be due to:
a) Primary hypogonadism: due to absance or disease of the
testes.
b) Secondary hypogonadism: due to defective secretion of LH
&I or FSH •
3. It Is characterized by Impotence, obesity and molecular
wasting (due to loss of the protein anabollslng effect of
testosterone).

Ill. FEMALE SEX HORMONES (ESTROGENS Af/10 PROGESTINS):


A. Estrogens are produced by:
1. Follicles and corpus luteum of the ovary.
2. Placenta which produces increased amount In the second and
third trimesters of pregnancy.
B. Three types of estrogens are present:
1. Estradiol (E 2 ) and estrone (E 1 ) are produced by the ovary.
2. Estriol (E 3 ) is produced by the placenta.

0 OH OH
OH

HO

Estradiol, Ba

C. Progestins (progesterone)
THECA CELL
are produced and secreted
Cholesterol
by corpus luteum.
D. Biosynthesis of · · · · · · · · · ·J
estrogens and Androstenedione & Testostemt

progesterone:
1. It is similar to those of FSH Receptor Androst~111dion~ Testo~erone

male hormones. ~
ATP cAMP .......................... Arcrnaltzolton

2. Estrogens are formed by '0'


Estrone
Estradiol
the aromatization of
GRANULOSA CELL
androgens in a complex
"Two-c:cll hypothesis.. of ovarian csaogeo producti011.
process that involves 3 Lucciniziq hormone stimulales androgen production
hydroxylation steps by in thecal c:eDs. Androgens theft diffuse into granulosa layer,
where they are aromatized into estrogens, in an adion
theca and granulosa specifically stimulated by FSH.
cells of the ovaries.
Oraby's Illustrated reviews of biochemistry 206

3. There is two cell hypothesis presents an explanation of ovarian


steroidogenesis. It proposes that LH acts on the theca cells of
the ovary to produce androgens. Those androgens are
transferred from theca cells Into granulosa cells where before
ovulation, under the effect of FSH the androgens are converted
to estrogens by the enzyme aromatase. After ovulation the
granulosa cells secrete estrogens and progesterone directly
Into the blood stream under the Influence of FSH.
E. Plasma transport of estrogens and progesterone:
1. Estrogens are bound to testosterone-estrogen binding globulin
(TEBG), and progesterone is bound to corticosteroid binding
globulin (CBG).
2. Only the free (unbound~ hormones have biological activity.
F. Regulation (control) of secretion:
1. As mentioned before combined action of FSH and LH Is
required for the synthesis of estradiol.
2. LH is required for ovulation and synthesis of progesterone.
G. Metabolism and excretion:
1. Estrogens : The liver converts estradiol and estrone to estriol
which conjugates with sulfate or glucoronlc acid before
excreted In urine or bile.
2. Progesterone: The liver converts progesterone into a
compound called pregnandlol which conjugates with sulfate or
glucoronlc acid and excreted in urine.

H. Functions:
1. Estrogens :
s) Estrogens stimulate the growth of ttte cells of uterus,
vagina, graaflan follicles of the ovary and the mammary
gland.
b) Estrogens are responsible for the development of
&econdary sexual characters e.g. female voice, female
pattern of hair and fat distribution.
c) Estrogens Induce, In the uterus and mammary gland , the
synthesis of progesterone receptors.
d) Estrogens are responsible for the maintenance of the
menstrual cycle.
e) Estrogens are required for the development of mammary
gland.
Hormones 207

ACETATE -

5~ 7
HO 6

20 hydroxlflaso
22 h11droxylase
1
20, 22 dasmolaao
~··
C•O

U-hydroxv-
dohydroaanase
••
17011-hydroxylaso/ PREGNENOLON 4-5 lsomorose
BIOstnfBBSIS OP
ISDOGBifS
PROGIS'l'DOBB
ARD
~~
_rrS···
~·· ~

.~
rrs_
~··

17-HVDROXVPREGNENOLONE PROGESTERONE
1 1
17 20 desmolase

'
. aSP I
o•
17a&-hydroxylaso

c&d"
!"•

DEHVDROEPIANDROSTERONE / ' 7 • VDAOXVPROGESTI!RONE


3--hydroxy-~

aSP
17,20 doamolaao
dehydrogenase o ••
64-llaomaraso·QSP 171 -hydroxy-
dohydroganasa
~ 0
ANDROSTENEDIONE TESTOSTERONE
l
aromatlzatlon

o•
0

17--hydroxv-
dahydroganue
...
aSP

laromatlzatlon
p

ESTRONE ESTRADIOL

2. Progesterone :
s) Progesterone Is necessary for the Implantation of fertilized
ovum In the uterus.
b) Progesterone Inhibits uterine contraction during pregnancy
(I.a. maintain pregnancy).
c) Progesterone stimulates the growth of the secretory glands
of uterus and mammary gland.
d) Progesterone Is responsible for the maintenance of
menstrual cycle (luteal phase).
e) Progesterone antagonizes the action of estrogens In
various tissues.

1Cormones tliat reeufate ca{cium meta6o{ism


These hormones are Involved In the regulation of blood calcium:
parathyroid hormone (PTH), calcltrlol and calcitonin.
I. Parathyroid hormone:
Oraby's illustrated reviews of biochemistry 208
A. Structure and synthesis:
1. It is polypeptide chain of 84
amino acids and molecular
weight 9500.
2. The physiological activity of
the hormone on both skeleton
and renal tissues are
contained within the 34 amino
acids counting from the amino
terminal end (- NH 2 ) of the
molecule.
3. PTH is synthesized In
parathyroid gland as
precursor of 115 amino acids
called prepro PTH. A 25 amino
acids peptide is cleaved at N-
Parathyroid hormone.
terminal giving proPTH of 90
amino acids. 6 Amino acids peptide Is then removed from
proPTH to give mature PTH.
B. Regulation of secretion:
1. PTH secretion Is inversely related to the concentration of
Ionized calcium. Low blood
2. Ionized calcium stimulates PTH secretion and vice versa.
C. Mechanism of action of PTH:
Low plamo [Ca.. I
1. PTH binds to a receptor
In a cell membrane of l
bone and kidney cells. r------(e'Wi}
reedbadt
Ntpli.e w 1
(hrothyroid glandsj

2. Its
Inside
second
target
messenger
cells are
1 25 D:3(0H) 2
/ f~Otnlivcr
calcium and cyclic AMP.

(Kidneys)
D. Functions of PTH:
1. Maintenance of plasma
calcium level within
normal level by:
s) Formation of calcltrlol
essential for Intestinal
calcium absorption .

Regulation of PTH secretion.


Hormones 209

b) Mobilization of calcium (Ca••) from bones .


c) Reduction of renal calcium excretion •
2. PTH Increases the urinary excretion of phosphate .
E. Hypoparathyroidism:
1. It Is a condition resulting from Insufficient amount of PTH.
2. It Is characterized by decreased serum Ionized calcium and
elevated serum phosphate.
3. Symptoms Include neuromuscular Irritability , tetany and in
severe cases tetanic paralysis of respiratory muscles +
Death.
4. Causes:
a) Primary hypoparathyroidism: due to autoimmune
destruction of the gland (rare).
b) Secondary hypoparathyroidism : more common, It Is due to
accidental removal or damage of the glands during neck
surgery e.g. thyroidectomy.
F. Hyperparathyroidism:
1. It Is a condition resulting from excessive production of PTH.
2. It Is characterized by elevated serum Ionized calcium and PTH
and decreased serum phosphate levels.
3. Symptoms and signs: Include extensive bone resorption,
kidney stones formation and frequent urinary tract Infections.
4. Causes:
a) Primary hyperparathyroidism: It Is usually due to
parathyroid adenoma, but may be due to parathyroid
hyperplasia or ectopic production of PTH by a malignant
tumour else where In the body.
b) Secondary hyperparathyroidism: due to renal failure which
results In decreased conversion of 25 OH-0 3 to 1 ,25 (OH) 2 -
D3. This leads to Insufficient calcium absorption in the gut
and secondary release of PTH In an attempt to maintain
normal calcium levels .
c) Tertiary hyperparathyroidism: due to the development of
functioning parathyroid adenoma as a complication of
previously existing secondary hyperparathyroidism.
Oraby's Illustrated reviews of biochemistry 210

II. CALCITRIOL ( 1,26 DIHYDROXYCHOLECALC/FEROL):


A. Structure and synthesis:
1. Dlscused In vitamin D part I.

Calcium absorption incrascd

B. Regulation of calcltrlol synthesis: synthesis of calcltrlol Is


regulated by :
1. The level of plasma calcium: Hypocalcemia stimulates 1-
hydroxylase enzyme present In the kidney which leads to
calcltrlol formation . This effect requires PTH, which Is also
released In response to hypocalemla.
2. Calcltrlol Itself Is an Important regulator of Its own production.
High levels of calcitrlol Inhibit renal 1-a hydroxylase.
C. Mechanism of action of calcltrlol: Calcltrlol acts at the cellular
level In a manner similar to other steroid hormones (see vitamin
D, part 1).
D. Functions of calcltrlol:
1. Normalization of plasma calcium :, through :
a) Increases of the Intestinal absorption of calcium (by
stimulating synthesis of specific mRNA responsible for the
synthesis of calcium binding protein (calblndln) In
Intestinal mucosal cells ).
b) Reabsorption of calcium from bones and kidney.
2. Mineralization of bones:
a) Calcltrlol stimulates the synthesis of osteocalcln which Is
calcium binding protein present In bones.
Hormones 211

E. VItamin D deficiency: It results in rickets In children and


osteomalcia In adults ( see vitamin D part I ).

Ill. CALCITONIN:
A. Calcltonlne Is a 32-amlno acid peptide secreted by the
parafolllcular C cells of the human thyroid.
B. Its function In regulation of plasma calcium In human Is uncertain.
However, it may have a role In decreasing plasma calcium by
Increasing deposition of calcium In bones.

Hormones of tlie pancreas ana qastrointestinaC tract


I. Pancreas Is 2 different organs contained with In one structure:
A. Exocrine gland: which Is the acinar portion of the pancreas,
secreting into the duodenal lumen the enzymes and ions used for
digestion.
B. Endocrine gland: which Is the Islets of Langerhans.

II. There are 1-2 million Islets In human pancreas make up 1-2 % of Its
weight, and they are 4 types, each secretes a specific hormone:
A. A or alpha cells: secrete glucagon.
B. B or beta cells: secrete Insulin.
C. D or delta cells: secrete somatostatin.
D. F cells: secrete pancreatic polypeptide.

Ill. INSULIN:
A. Insulin: has an Impressive list of "firsts". It was:
1. The first protein proved to have hormonal action.
2. The first protein crystallzed .
3. The first protein sequenced for Its amino acids.
4. The first protein synthesized by chemical techniques.
5. The first protein shown to be synthesized as a large precursor
molecule"preprolnsulln".
6. The first protein prepared for commercial use by recombinate
DNA technology.
B. Structure:
1. Insulin Is composed of 51 amino acids arranged in two
polypeptide chains designated A (21 amino acids) and B (30
amino acids).
Ora by's illustra ted re v ie ws o f bioch emistry 212

2 . A and 8 chains are l inked together by two disulfide bridges


[between ami no acids 7 (A) & 7 (8) and 20 (A) & 19(8)]. The
insuli n molecu l e a l so co nta in s a n Intra m olecu l e disulfide
bridge betwee n a min o aci d s 6 a n d 11 of the A c h ain.

C. Bolsynthesls:
1. Insulin is synthes iz ed as long polypeptide of 110 amino acids
ca ll ed : pre prolnsulin.
2 . 24 Amino ac id r es idu es " signal se quence " at the N- t er min a l
end of preproinsulin are cleaved In e ndoplasmi c reticu l um to
form anoth e r p r ecursor ca ll ed proinsulln (86 amino ac id s ).
3. Th e proinsulin is transferred to the Go l gl apparatus, where it
under goes protolysis to give In s ulin and c -p eptlde.
4 . In Golgi appara tu s a l so In su lin combines with z in c and packed
Into secretory granules. Zinc i s es s entia l for insulin act i vity .
5. Both in s ulin and c-peptide are secreted Into the ci r cu l ation an
eq uimo lar amou nts.
6. Approximately 50 units of i n s ul i n per day are required ; thi s as
about 1 / 5 of t h e amount sto r ed in the human pancreas .

.. ~

6olgo +
fndooiOSIIIOC
rc:t .cviUfn opporo tus

coo-
Insulin
C-oeptlde
Preprolnaulln P tOini UIIn
Hormones 213

D. Regulation of Insulin secretion:


1. Stimulation of Insulin secretion :Insulin secretion by the p-cells
of the Islets of Lsngerhans Is closely coordinated wltf:l the
release of glucagon by the pancreatic a-cells. The relative
amounts of l'nsulln and glucagon released by the pancreas are
regulated so that: the rate of hepatic glucose production Is
kept equal to the amount of glucose used by the peripheral
tissues. The following substances stimulate and Increase
:Insulin secretion:
s) Glucose :An Increase In plasma glucose concentration Is
the moat Important stimulus of Insulin secretion. At the
same time glucose Inhibits glucagon release.
b) Hormones :Growth hormone, cortisol, estrogens,
progesterone and placental lactogen.
c) Gastrointestinal hormones: as secretion.
d) Amino acids :after Ingestion of protein.
s) Pharmacological drugs: many drugs stimulate Insulin
secretion and
used In
treatment of H,C-o-50,-NH-w-NH-ICH,),-CH,
diabetes mellitus 0
especially type TolbuTamide
11. These drugs
are: sulphonylurea compounds and tolbutamide.
2. Inhibition of Insulin secretion :
Epinephrine: Inhibits Insulin secretion even In the presence of
glucose.
E. Insulin degradation: Insulin-after carrying out Its physiologic
functions-Is broken down by 2 enzymes:
1. Protease enzyme: which Is present In many tissues.
2. ·Glutathione Insulin transhydrogenase: This enzyme reduces
the disulfide bonds of Insulin, separating It Into 2 separate
Inactive polypeptides. This reaction needs glutathione as a
reducing substance.

6 p
A
A
s s
I I
s B
s +
I I 46SH

Active insulin Q; B
D
Inactive peptide a
Oraby's Illustrated reviews of biochemistry 214

F. Functions (metabolic effects) of Insulin:


1. Effects on carbohydrate metabolism: The intravenous
administration of Insulin causes an Immediate decrease In the
concentration of blood glucose. This decrease Is caused by:
a) Increased glucose transport Into cella (except for liver.
brain. lens • Intestinal mucosa, renal tubules and red blood
cellls where glucose transport does not depend on Insulin
but passes freely).
b) Increased glycogen synthesis (glycogenesis).
c) Decraese gluconeogenesis.
2. Effects on lipid metabolism:
a) Inhibition of lipolysis: By Inhibiting hormone sensitive
trlacylglycerol lipase In adipose tissue.
b) Stimulation of lipogenesis: Insulin Increases the transport
of glucose, providing the substances (glycerol-phosphate.
acetyl CoA and NADPH} needed for fatty acid synthesis.
and hence lipogenesis.
3. Effect on protein synthesis: Insulin stimulates the entery of
amino acids Into cells and protein synthesis In most tissues.
4. effect on cell replication:
a) Insulin has effects on cell growth and replication .
b) It has also effects on fetal organogenesis and
differentiation and In tissue repair and regeneration.

G. Mechanism of Insulin action:


1. Insulin receptors:
a) Insulin binds to specific, high affinity receptors In the .cell
membrane of most tissues.
b) After binding to the cell surface, the Insulin-receptor
complex enters the cell by pinocytosis, producing a
membrane-bound vesicle.
c) losulln then carries out many reactions (through unknown
second messenger} which finally leads to a diverse
biological effects, on carbohydrate. protein. lipids and cell
replication.
d) The Insulin Is ultimately degraded In the lysosomes and the
receptors return to the cell membrane.
2. Membrane effect of Insulin: Insulin, once bound to the
receptor, causes an Increase on the transport of glucose
across the cell membrane.
Hormones 215

Insulin

Glucose Protein Activation and Protei~ Cytoplasm


trant:port phosphorylation- inhibition of syntheses
dephosphorylation enzymes
Cell growth
and replication

Nucleus

3. Intracellular effects of Insulin: The binding of Insulin to Its


receptor stimulates a aeries of reactions that lead to the
activation or Inhibition of key enzymes In the cell through:
a) Activation and Inhibition of enzymes: e.g. Insulin activates
phosphodiesterase enzyme that converts cAMP Into AMP
(see part II, glycogen metabolism and lipogenesis).
b) Phosphorylation and dephosphorylation of enzymes: e.g.
Insulin stimulates phosphoprotein phosphatase enzymes
that dephosphorylate glycogen synthase (activating It) and
gl.ycogen phosphorylase (Inactivating it). (see part II,
glycogen metabolism and lipolysis).
c) Stimulation of translation of mRNA for at least 50 proteins
In a variety of tissues.
d) Regulation of transcription of mRNA e.g. Insulin Inhibits
transcription of mRNA of phosphoenol pyruvate
carboxyklnase enzyme, leading to Inhibition of
gluconeogenesis.
Orsby's Illustrated reviews of biochemistry 216

H. Down regulation of Insulin receptors:


1. Insulin receptors are found

on most mammalian cells,
In cocentratlon up to

•••
20,000 per cell.
2. In conditions in which ••• • ••
plasma insulin levels are • • •••••••
• • ••
high e.g. obesity or
Down regulation: left, 8 insulin
acromegaly the number of receptors with near normal conce-
insulin receptors is ntration of insulin. right,4 ins-
ulin receptors with high insulin
decreased and target concentration.
tissues become less sesltive to insulin.
3. This decrease is called: "down regulation" and It results from
the loss of receptors by internalization.
4. Down regulation explains part of insulin resistance in obesity
and type II diabetes mellitus.
I. Diabetes mellitus:
1. This Is a disease resulting from a deficiency of Insulin action
(due to absence of, or resistance to insulin). It Is discussed
before in carbohydrate metabolism part II.

IV. GLUCAGON:
A. Glucagon Is a polypeptide hormone secreted primarily by the a.-
cells of the pancreatic Islets. Glucagon together with
epinephrine, cortisol and growth hormone oppose many of the
actions of Insulin.
B. Structure of glucagon: Glucagon Is composed of 29 amino acids
arranged In a single polypeptide chain.
C. Biosynthesis of glucagon: It Is synthesized as a large precursor
molecule Mpreproglucagon" that Is converted to glucagon through
a series of selective proteolytic cleavages, similar to those
described for Insulin biosynthesis.
D. Regulation of glucagon secretion:
1. Stimulation of secretion: glucagon secretion is stimulated by
low blood glucose, amino acids and epinephrine.
2. Inhibition of secretion: glucagon secretion is inhibited by
Increased blood sugar. This occurs after Ingestion of
carbohydrate-rich meal.
E. Functions (metabolic effects)of glucagon:
1. Effects on carbohydrate metabolism: It Increases blood
glucose level through:
Hormones 217

a) Stimulation of glycogenolysis (In liver and not In muscles).


b) Stimulation of gluconeogenesis.
2. Effects on lipid metabolism:
a) Glucagon helps the oxidation of fatty acids In liver and
Sl!bsequent formation of ketones from acetyl CoA.
b) Glucagon also stimulates lipolysis through stimulation of
hormone-sens:tive trlacylglycerol lipase.
3. Effects on protein metabolism:
a) Glucagon Increases the uptake of amino acids by the liver,
for gluconeogenesis.
4. Mechanism of action of glucagon:
a) Glucagon binds to a membrane receptor of target cells
such as liver and adipose tissue.
b) This will stimulate adenylate cyclase enzymes in the cell
membrane , whch In turn causes a rise In cAMP (the second
messenger). cAMP activates protein klnases and increases
the phosphorylation of specific enzymes e.g. glycogen
synthase and phosphorylase.

V. SOMATOSTATIN:
A. It Is 14-amino acid peptide which Is synthesized In D-cells of the
pancreatic Islets.
B. In addition to Its presence In pancreatic Islets, somatostatin Is
found In the hypothalamus and many gastrointestinal tissues.

C. Functions:
1. Pancreatic somatostatin :Inhibits the release of other Islets
cell hormones: Insulin, glucagon and pancreatic polypeptide.
2. Hypothalamic somatostatin: Inhibits the release of growth
hormone, TSH, FSH and ACTH.
3. Gastrointestinal somatostatin: Inhibits the absorption of
nutrients because:
a) It prolongs gastric emptying.
b) It decreases gastric secretion and gastric acid production.
c) It decreases the digestive enzymes secreted by pancreas.
d) It decreases visceral blood flow.
e) It slows sugar absorption.
Oraby's Illustrated reviews of biochemistry 218

VI. PANCREATIC POLYPEPTIDE:


A. It Is 36-amlno acid peptide secreted by F-cells of pancreatic
Islets.
B. Its function Is unknown but It may haves effects on hepatic
glycogen and gaatrolntatlnal secretion.

VII. GASTROINTESTINAL HORMONES:


Hormone Location MaJor action
Gaslrin OUirlc llltrvm, Galrlc acid and pepsin MCfetlon
duodenum
CholocpiOidlm (CCI<) Duodenum. jelufMn PIIICIUtic amvfae leCfallon
Secretin Duodenum. Jeiunum Plncrullo ~ MCIIdCin
Guulc inhlbllofy poly- Small bOWel Enl\ancea ~led lnluln ........: lntiblla galrlc
peptide (GIP) add MC:tellon
Vaoac:llve intestinal Pancreas Smoot1 rnustle rlfuallon; IISknulata PIIICfUllc blc:Mionale
polypepllde (VIP) •cr•Uon
Matilin Smail bOWel lnitiales ln1efc9getiM lnlelllnll motiiiJ
SomaiOSIIIIn Stomach. duodlnum. Nvmlroullnhibitory elflc:ta
pancreaa
Pancreatic polypeptide Pancreas Inhibits pancreatic bicafbonato and PfUioln aocrotlon
(PP)
Enkophallns Stomach.· duodonvm. Oplate-llko aCIIonl
glllbl&ddlt
Substanco p Enllte gasln)intftlinal flllrsiologlc actions uncertain
tract
llombolln-lille immuno- Stomactl. duodenum Slimulaln re!oase of gasutn and CCK
reac:llvtly (BU)
Neurolensin Ileum Pllylialogie ac:liana unknown
Ente«~gluc:qon Pancreas. small in· Ptlplologlc actionl" unlcnown
tOIIino

1formones of tliyroitfaCantf
See protein metabolism, part Ill

1formones of tlie ~tfney


I. In addition to excretory functions, the kidney acta as an endocrine
gland, secreting many hormones.
II. Kidney hormones can be classified Into:
A. Hormones acting on blood vessels.:
1. Hormones cause vasoconstriction:
11) Renin.
Hormones 219

2. Hormones cause vasodilatation:


s) Renomedullary prostaglandins.
b) Antihypertensive renomedullary lipids.
o) Kininogen.
B. Hormones acting for RBCs production (Erythropoiesis):
1. Erythropoietin.
2. Erythrogenln.
C. Hormones acting for calcium metabolism: by Increasing Intestinal
calcium absorption and Its deposition In bones.
1. Calcltrlol [1,26 (OH) 2 - 0 3].
2. 24,26 (OH)z - 0 3 •

'Eicosanoids and reCated compounds


See lipid metabolism part II.
Oraby's Illustrated reviews of biochemistry 220

Summary of major endocrine hoemones :


Hormones Target tissues Chemical Primary actions·
nature
Steroid hormones
Androgens (male sex Peripheral Steroid Stimulates development of
hormones) tissues, testis. secodary sex characters In
.Testosterone (and men, protein anabolic effect.
other androgens)
Estrogens(female sex Peripheral Stroid Stmulates development of
hormones), Esterone, tissues, ovary secondary sex charteristics
estradiol in women • protein anabolic
effect .
Progesterone Uterus Steroid Prepares uterus for
implantalon of ovum.
Adrenal cortex hormones
11-Deoxycortis-ol Renal distal Steroid Maintains electrolyte and
tubule, large water balance
Intestine.
Cortisone or Muscle, liver, Steroids Stimulates gluconeogenesis
hydrocortisone adipose cells from
(cortisol) amino acids, anti-Insulin effects
on glucose and fat metabolism

Aldosterone Renal distal Steroid Regulates retention· of


tubule, large sodium Ions, excretion of
lnteslnes potassium ions
Amino acid-derived hormones
Adrenal medulla Liver, adipose Phenolic Stimulates glycogenolysis,
hormones cells amines hyprtenslve effect .
(Epinephrine
Norepinephrine)
Thyroid hormones. Most tissues Amino acid Regulates rate of
(iodinated) metabolism . increases
thyroxine or serum glucose.
derivatives
Protein and polypeptide hormones
Anterior pituitary, Thyroid Protein Stimulates development and
thyroid stimulating secretion of thyroid gland.
hormone
(TSH), thyrotropin
Ad renocortlcotroplc Adrenal cortex protein Stimulates growth and
hormone(ACTH) secretion of adrenal cortex
F olllcle-stimulating Ovarian follicle protein Stimulates growth of follicles
hormone(FSH) (women), and production of estrogen
semlnephrous in women I formallg~ of
tubules (men) spermatozoa in men.
luteinizing hormone Corpus luteum protein Triggers formation of corpus
Hormones 221

(LH) (women), luteum and production of


testes (men) progestrone In women .
' produ~tion of
androgens by lnterstatlal cells
In men.
Prolactin (lactogenic Milk glands protein lnl!lates lactation
hormone, LTH).
Growth hormone (GH) Moat tissues protein Stimulates growth ·(also
affects fat and carbohydrate
metabolism .
Posterior pituitary hormones
Vasopressin, Renal peptide Stimulates reabsorption of
(antidiuretic collecting water in kidney tubule
hormone, (ADH) ducts, bladder
Oxytocin (Pictocln) Uterus, peptide Contracts uterus
mammary
glands
Calcitonin (thyroid Bone peptide Lowers serum calcium
gland).
Parathyroid hormone Bone,amall protein Regulates blood calcium
Intestine,
kidney
Pancreatic hormones
Insulin Moat cella peptide Facilitates carbohydrate
catabolism
Glucagon Liver peptide Raises blood glucose by
hepatic glycogenolysis .
Gastrointestinal hormones
Secretin Pancreas, peptide Stimulates flow of pan~r,atlc

gallbladder. juice and bile to a much


smaller extent
Cholecystokinin- Gallbladder peptide Contraction of gallbladder:
pancreozymln pancreas stimulates secretion of
pancreatic
enzymes.
Gastrin Stomach peptide Stimulates secretion of
gastric juice (HCI)
Renal erythropoietin Bone peptide Stimulates red cell formation
Hypothalamic factors Anterior pep tides Stimulates or inhibits
pituitary release of corresponding
trophic hormones.
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This book "Oraby's Biochemistry " by
SAID ORABY is made in it's four parts (1,
11, Ill and IV) to provide necessary
knowledge and recent information about
biochemistry for medical students and
allied sciences.
• All efforts have been made to simplify
most of the subjects.
• Latest advances in biochemistry
important to medicine.
• Many illustrations are added to bring
biochemistry alive.
• Part IV (questions and answers): is a
new part (2 volumes) to practice your
studying and is the key to success.
• Postgraduates and students who are
preparing for standard courses or
examinations (fellowships, ECFMG •• etc)
will find this book of benefit for them.
• Finally, I hope this work is appre~iated
and accepted by students and
colleagues.
....

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