Reactions in biochemistry can be explained by an understanding of fundamental organic chemistry principles and reactions. This paradigm is extended to biochemical principles and to a myriad of biomolecules. The text provides a framework for understanding various topics in biochemistry, including the chemical behavior of biomolecules, enzyme activity, and more. It goes beyond mere memorization. Using several techniques to develop a relational understanding, including homework, this text helps students fully grasp and better correlate essential organic chemistry concepts with those at the root of biochemistry. The goal is to achieve a better understanding of the fundamental principles of biochemistry.

Key Features

• Presents a review chapter of fundamental organic chemistry principles and reactions.


• Presents and explains the fundamental principles of biochemistry using principles and common reactions of organic chemistry.


• Discusses enzymes, proteins, fatty acids, lipids, vitamins, hormones, nucleic acids and other biomolecules by comparing and contrasting them with the organic chemistry reactions that constitute the foundation of these classes of biomolecules.


• Discusses the organic synthesis and reactions of amino acids, carbohydrates, nucleic acids and other biomolecules.