Overview
This lecture introduces the four main biological macromolecules—carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids—covering their monomers, major functions, and elemental composition.
Introduction to Biomolecules
- Biomolecules are large molecules essential for life, obtained from food.
- There are four main types: carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids.
- Monomers are the basic building blocks forming these large molecules.
Carbohydrates
- Carbohydrates are a main energy source and found in foods like pasta and bread.
- Their monomer is the monosaccharide.
- Carbs provide quick energy, important for activities like marathon running.
Lipids
- Lipids (fats) include butter, oils, and cholesterol.
- Their building blocks are fatty acids and glycerol.
- Lipids insulate, store long-term energy, and make up cell membranes.
- Lipids must be consumed in moderation for health.
Proteins
- Proteins are found in meat and beans and are important for muscles.
- Their monomers are amino acids.
- Proteins have many functions: muscle growth, immune system support, and serving as enzymes.
- DNA codes for protein structure and function.
Nucleic Acids
- Nucleic acids include DNA and RNA, which store and transmit genetic information.
- Their monomer is the nucleotide.
- All living things contain DNA, so nucleic acids are present in foods from living organisms.
Structure and Elemental Composition
- The elements in biomolecules are summarized by CHO, CHO, CHON, CHONP.
- Carbohydrates and lipids are made of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen (CHO).
- Proteins have carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, and nitrogen (CHON).
- Nucleic acids have carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, and phosphorus (CHONP).
- The element arrangement (chains or rings) affects the biomolecule’s function.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Biomolecule — Large molecule necessary for life, built from smaller units.
- Monomer — Small building block that joins with others to make polymers.
- Carbohydrate — Macromolecule used for quick energy; monomer is monosaccharide.
- Lipid — Fat molecule for long-term energy and insulation; monomers are fatty acids and glycerol.
- Protein — Macromolecule for muscle, enzymes, and more; monomer is amino acid.
- Nucleic Acid — DNA/RNA, carries genetic information; monomer is nucleotide.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Study illustrations of biomolecule structures to understand how arrangement affects function.
- Memorize the CHO, CHO, CHON, CHONP mnemonic for biomolecule elements.