Body Chemicals

• #Esswein
• Atoms consist of protons (positive electrical charge), neutrons (no charge), and electrons (negative electrical charge). Drugs work at the atomic level by binding to receptors through ionic and covalent processes
• Some important chemicals in the body can be found below:
  • Oxygen (O) is found in water, glucose, and all organic molecules. It is used in cellular respiration to make ATP.
  • Carbon (C) is the backbone of all organic molecules, and is the basis of cell structure and energy storage
  • Hydrogen (H⁺) is found in water and organic compounds, and it maintains the body's pH balance as the H⁺ concentration determines acidity
    • pH is the "power of Hydrogen"
  • Nitrogen (N) is found in amino acids (proteins) and nucleic acids (DNA/RNA). It ties into growth, repair, and enzyme function
  • Sodium (Na⁺) controls fluid balance, nerve signals, and muscle contractions
    • Most prevalent intracellular cation
  • Potassium (K⁺) maintains resting membrane potential in the heart and other muscle
    • Most prevalent extracellular cation
  • Calcium (Ca²⁺) aids in muscle contraction, clotting, nerve transmission, and bone strength
  • Magnesium (Mg²⁺) stabilizes ATP use, and is used in nerve conduction and muscle relaxation
  • Chloride (Cl⁻) helps balance osmotic pressure and is a component of the [[Acid-Base Balance]]
  • Iron (Fe) carries oxygen in hemoglobin
  • Iodine (I) is needed for the thyroid hormones and metabolism regulation