The Field of Biochemistry Biochemistry is the study of the chemistry of living organisms. Biochemistry seeks a molecular explanation for life, or the processes that support life. Biochemists investigate all aspects of cellular chemistry which is the foundation of the understanding of all of the biological sciences. Studies by biochemists can be differentiated by the classes of chemicals that they examine in their laboratories. Many biochemists study directly or use the protein molecules called enzymes.
Enzymes are the extremely efficient catalysts of cells.
Some enzymes also act as control-points, to allow the chemical reactions to occur only when they are needed. In some instances vitamins are converted to organic chemicals called coenzymes that assist certain enzymes in their catalytic roles. Nucleic acids are information molecules that direct the formation of the proteins in the cells. Carbohydrates or sugars are not just sources of energy, but can be recognition molecules on the surfaces of cells. Lipids or fats are essential elements in the structure of the membranes that surround cells and intracellular organelles, and in intracellular signalling.