Overview
This lecture focuses on the four major biological macromolecules—carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids—and their roles in chemistry and the body.
Carbohydrates
- Carbohydrates are organic molecules made of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen.
- Main function is energy supply for cells.
- Monosaccharides are simple sugars (e.g., glucose).
- Disaccharides consist of two monosaccharides (e.g., sucrose).
- Polysaccharides are complex carbohydrates (e.g., glycogen, starch).
Lipids
- Lipids are hydrophobic molecules including fats, oils, and steroids.
- Main functions are long-term energy storage and insulation.
- Triglycerides consist of glycerol and three fatty acids.
- Phospholipids form the main component of cell membranes.
- Steroids include hormones like cholesterol.
Proteins
- Proteins are made of amino acids linked by peptide bonds.
- Function as enzymes, hormones, and structural components.
- Structure includes primary, secondary, tertiary, and quaternary levels.
- Denaturation is the loss of protein structure and function.
Nucleic Acids
- Nucleic acids include DNA and RNA.
- DNA stores genetic information; RNA helps in protein synthesis.
- Made of nucleotides containing sugar, phosphate, and nitrogen base.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Monosaccharide — simple sugar, basic unit of carbohydrates.
- Disaccharide — molecule of two monosaccharides.
- Polysaccharide — large carbohydrate made of many monosaccharides.
- Triglyceride — lipid made from one glycerol and three fatty acids.
- Phospholipid — lipid with a phosphate group, forms cell membranes.
- Amino acid — building block of proteins.
- Peptide bond — bond linking amino acids in proteins.
- Denaturation — process where proteins lose shape/function.
- Nucleotide — building block of nucleic acids.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review flashcards on each macromolecule.
- Study diagrams of carbohydrate, lipid, protein, and nucleic acid structures.
- Complete assigned reading on macromolecules in your textbook.