Lecture on Macromolecules

Introduction to Macromolecules

• Macromolecules are large structures essential to living organisms.
• Composed of small subunits called monomers which bind together to form larger units called polymers.
• Four classes of macromolecules:
  1. Carbohydrates
  2. Lipids
  3. Proteins
  4. Nucleic Acids

Carbohydrates

• Function: Main fuel source for most living things and a structural component for many plants.
• Monomers: Monosaccharides (simple sugars like glucose, fructose, and ribose).
• Polymers: Polysaccharides (long chains of monosaccharides).
  • Storage Carbohydrates:
    • Starch: Found in plants.
    • Glycogen: Found in animals.
  • Structural Carbohydrates:
    • Cellulose: Found in plants.
    • Chitin: Found in insects.

Lipids

• General Characteristics: Hydrophobic, diverse functions.
• Functions:
  • Energy storage.
  • Cell membrane formation.
  • Steroid function.
• Components:
  • Fats (triglycerides, saturated and unsaturated fats).
  • Phospholipids (form cellular membranes).
  • Steroids (all sex hormones, cholesterol-based).

Proteins

• Role: Involved in nearly all cellular functions; major part of all living organisms.
• Monomers: Amino acids (20 different types).
• Polymers: Polypeptides.
• Structure: Results from folding, which determines function.

Nucleic Acids

• Functions: Store, transmit, and express genetic information.
• Monomers: Nucleotides (e.g., Adenine, Guanine, Thymine).
• Polymers: Polynucleotides (strands of DNA and RNA).

Conclusion

• Further resources such as videos on DNA and RNA are available for more detailed study.
• Plans to potentially create more in-depth videos on each macromolecule in the future.
• Encouragement to ask questions, subscribe, and share if the content was helpful.