Unit 695: Veterinary Biochemistry

1. Introduction to Veterinary Biochemistry

• Overview of veterinary biochemistry
• Basic principles of biochemistry in veterinary medicine
• Structure and function of biomolecules
• Cellular metabolism and biochemical pathways

2. Carbohydrates in Veterinary Biochemistry

• Structure and classification of carbohydrates
• Dietary role and sources in animals
• Carbohydrate metabolism: glycolysis, gluconeogenesis, glycogen metabolism
• Importance of carbohydrates as energy sources in physiological processes

3. Lipids and Lipid Metabolism in Veterinary Biochemistry

• Structure and classification of lipids
• Functions: energy storage, membrane components, signaling molecules
• Digestion, absorption, and transport of lipids in animals
• Lipid metabolism pathways: beta-oxidation, lipogenesis
• Role of lipids in veterinary physiology and disease

4. Proteins and Amino Acids in Veterinary Biochemistry

• Structure and classification of proteins
• Amino acids: essential vs. non-essential, role in nutrition
• Protein synthesis and degradation
• Functions of proteins in physiological processes
• Protein metabolism and nitrogen balance

5. Enzymes in Veterinary Biochemistry

• Enzyme classification and nomenclature
• Mechanisms of enzyme action and catalysis
• Enzyme kinetics and regulation
• Role of enzymes in metabolic pathways
• Diagnostic and therapeutic significance in veterinary medicine

6. Biochemical Pathways in Veterinary Medicine

• Overview of key metabolic pathways
  • Glycolysis
  • Citric acid cycle (Krebs cycle)
  • Oxidative phosphorylation
  • Pentose phosphate pathway
• Integration and regulation of these pathways
• Energy production and nutrient metabolism

7. Hormones and Signaling Molecules in Veterinary Biochemistry

• Overview of the endocrine system in animals
• Structure and classification of hormones
• Hormone biosynthesis and secretion
• Mechanisms of hormone action (receptors, second messengers)
• Role in homeostasis, growth, reproduction, and metabolism

8. Nutritional Biochemistry in Veterinary Medicine

• Nutrient requirements across animal species
• Digestion, absorption, and metabolism of macronutrients and micronutrients
• Role of vitamins and minerals in animal health
• Nutritional imbalances and their biochemical implications
• Importance of balanced diets in veterinary practice

9. Biochemical Basis of Veterinary Diseases

• Disruptions in biochemical pathways leading to disease
• Biochemical markers and diagnostic tests
• Examples of diseases linked to biochemical abnormalities
• Role of biochemistry in understanding pathogenesis and treatment

10. Metabolic Disorders in Veterinary Medicine

• Common metabolic disorders: diabetes mellitus, obesity, lipid metabolism disorders
• Biochemical basis and pathophysiology
• Diagnosis and treatment strategies
• Management and prevention in veterinary practice

11. Veterinary Toxicology and Xenobiotics

• Overview of toxic substances affecting animals
• Xenobiotic metabolism and detoxification pathways
• Mechanisms of toxicity at the biochemical level
• Diagnosis and treatment of poisoning cases
• Role of veterinary biochemistry in toxicology