Biokemikaalien

Biokemikaalien is a Finnish term that refers to biochemical compounds and reagents used in biology, chemistry, and related fields. The phrase covers a broad range of substances found in living systems as well as chemicals employed to analyze, modify, or study biological processes. In practice, biokemikaalien include metabolites such as sugars and organic acids, macromolecules like nucleic acids and proteins, and the enzymes, cofactors, and signaling molecules that drive cellular reactions. It also encompasses synthetic analogs, dyes, buffers, and other laboratory reagents essential for experimental work.

Classification of biokemikaalien can be approached by function or origin. Functionally, they include substrates and products of biochemical reactions, energy carriers such as ATP and NADH, structural components like nucleotides and amino acids, enzymes and coenzymes, and regulatory or signaling molecules. Origin-wise, many are naturally occurring in organisms, while others are produced synthetically or via recombinant methods for research, diagnostics, or industrial use.

Applications of biokemikaalien span basic research, clinical diagnostics, therapeutics, and biotechnological production. They are used in techniques such as polymerase chain reactions, DNA sequencing, protein purification, and metabolic assays, as well as in drug development and formulation. The handling and use of biokemikaalien are subject to safety and regulatory requirements, including proper storage, labeling, and waste management in laboratory environments.