Most biochemists deal with the chemistry of life process, such as metabolism, digestion and growth. About three-fourths of all biochemists are involved in research. Some do basic research which emphasizes increasing scientific knowledge. Among the interests of biochemists is the study of the action of foods, drugs, serums, allergens, and other substances on living tissue and bodily functions such as breathing and digestion. Biochemists investigate the chemical aspects of cells and blood, antibodies, enzymes, and hormones.
Many biochemists are interested in molecular biology-the study of genes and gene expression.
The broad international umbrella of biochemistry allows individual scientists to specialize rather narrowly if they wish. Another biochemist may study the similarities and differences between the organic and inorganic compounds found in animals and plants. Still another may be interested in the biochemical adaptions sea animals had to make millions of years ago when they began to live on land. Others may investigate the chemical processes that make muscles contract or attempt to identify genes that, when defective, may be responsible for inherited diseases. In whatever area biochemists work, they usually perform some basic laboratory duties which include culturing, purifying, drying, filtering, weighing, and measuring substances or materials.