Lecture on Biomolecules

Introduction to Biomolecules

• Biomolecules: Essential large molecules for life.
  • Also known as macromolecules.
  • Includes carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids.
• Monomers: Building blocks of biomolecules.

Carbohydrates

• Commonly found in foods like bread, pasta, fruits, and vegetables.
• Monomer: Monosaccharides (e.g., glucose).
  • Glucose is crucial for cellular respiration to make ATP.
• Disaccharides: Formed by combining two monosaccharides (e.g., maltose).
• Polysaccharides: Large carbohydrates (e.g., cellulose, chitin).
• Functions:
  • Major energy source for cells.
  • Structural component in cell walls (cellulose in plants, chitin in fungi and insect exoskeletons).
  • Energy storage in polysaccharide form (starch in plants, glycogen in animals).

Lipids

• Includes fats and oils (e.g., butter, olive oil).
• Types include triglycerides, phospholipids, and steroids.
• Characteristics:
  • Mostly hydrophobic (do not dissolve in water).
  • Building blocks often include glycerol and fatty acids.
• Functions:
  • Cell membrane structure (phospholipid bilayer).
  • Long-term energy storage.
  • Insulation (e.g., myelin sheath for neurons, thermal insulation like blubber).
  • Act as hormones (chemical messengers).

Proteins

• Found in foods like beans, meat, nuts, and eggs.
• Monomer: Amino acids.
• Functions:
  • Structural roles (e.g., muscle tissue, hair, collagen).
  • Embedded in cell membranes as channels and receptors.
  • Enzymes for metabolic processes.
  • Immune response (antibodies).
  • Some hormones (e.g., insulin).
  • Many genes code for proteins.

Nucleic Acids

• Includes DNA and RNA.
• Monomer: Nucleotide.
• Present in living organisms' food (e.g., DNA in strawberries).
• Functions:
  • Contain genetic information for coding traits.
  • Direct cell activities.

Memorization Aid

• Mnemonic: CHO-CHO-CHON-CHONP
  • C: Carbon
  • H: Hydrogen
  • O: Oxygen
  • N: Nitrogen
  • P: Phosphorus
• Importance: The structure of these elements impacts biomolecule function.

Conclusion

• Biomolecule structure is critical for function.
• Encouragement to stay curious and learn more.