1. Describe the sources of the precursors for prostaglandins and leukotrienes, including dietarily essential linoleic and a-linolenic acids.

2. Differentiate the biochemical actions of the anti-inflammatory glucocorticoids and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

3. Outline the "cyclic" pathway from arachidonic acid to the 2-series prostaglandins and thromboxane A₂ and the " linear" pathway to the 4-series of leukotrienes.

4. Delineate the clinical relevance of w3 fatty acids, thromboxane A₃ and PGI₂; describe the regulation of platelet aggregation in relation to diet, smoking and coronary heart disease.

5. List the general actions of prostaglandins and leukotrienes, emphasizing inflammatory, pain/fever, hypersensitivity, blood clotting and uterine effects.

Amino Acid Metabolism

1. State the requirements for an amino acid to be glucogenic, ketogenic or both.

2. List which amino acids are solely ketogenic.

3. Outline the steps in the metabolism of Phe and Tyr.

4. Identify the reaction catalyzed by phenylalanine hydroxylase, its co-factors and clinical symptoms of its deficiency.

5. Draw the steps in the metabolism of Met and Cys.

6. Identify the intermediate in the conversion of methionine to homocysteine and state its importance.

Protein Turnover / Ammonia Metabolism

1. Distinguish between the essential and non-essential amino acids.

2. Define positive and negative nitrogen balance.

3. List the roles of proteolysis (protein degradation).

4. Describe the transaminase reactions for alanine and aspartic acid.

5. List the compounds by which nitrogen is excreted.

6. Draw the urea cycle, including enzymes.

© Dr. Noel Sturm 2004