University:
Acadia University
Course:
BIOL 2663 | Marine Biology
Academic year:

2024
Views:

453

Pages:

4
Author:

Nabila n.

Macromolecules: Building Blocks of Life Macromolecules are large, complex molecules essential for life. They are the building blocks of cells and tissues, playing vital roles in structure, function, and regulation. What are Macromolecules? Macromolecules are large polymers assembled from smaller monomeric subunits. These polymers are built through dehydration reactions, which remove water molecules and link monomers together. The breaking down of polymers into monomers is achieved through hydrolysis, where water is added to break the bonds. These large molecules are essential for life as they provide structural support, store energy, facilitate chemical reactions, and carry genetic information. They are found in all living organisms, from single-celled bacteria to complex multicellular organisms. MOLECULES MACROMOLECULES CARBOHYDRATES H2O:29 MACROMOLECULES LIPIDS H2O:29 PROTEINS PROTEINS H2O:29 PROTEINS NUCLEIC ACIDS O,F,S,H The Four Classes of Macromolecules Carbohydrates Sugars and starches, providing energy and structural support. Lipids Fats, oils, and waxes, storing energy, forming cell membranes, and acting as hormones. Proteins Enzymes, antibodies, and structural components, facilitating chemical reactions, defending the body, and providing structure. Nucleic Acids DNA and RNA, storing and transmitting genetic information. Carbohydrates: Structure and Functions 1 Monosaccharides Simple sugars like glucose and fructose, serving as immediate energy sources. 2 Disaccharides Double sugars like sucrose and lactose, formed by linking two monosaccharides. 3 Polysaccharides Complex carbohydrates like starch and cellulose, providing energy storage and structural support. Lipids: Structure and Functions Fats and Oils Long-term energy storage and insulation. Phospholipids Forming cell membranes, creating a barrier between the cell's interior and exterior. Steroids Hormones like cholesterol, regulating various bodily functions. Proteins: Structure and Functions 1 Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins, each with a unique side chain that determines its properties and function. 2 Proteins fold into specific three-dimensional structures determined by their amino acid sequence, which is essential for their function. 3 Proteins play diverse roles, including enzymes that catalyze reactions, antibodies that defend the body, and structural components that provide support. Nucleic Acids: Structure and Functions 1 Nucleic acids are polymers made up of nucleotide monomers, each consisting of a sugar, a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base. 2 DNA is the genetic material that stores the blueprint of life, encoding instructions for protein synthesis. 3 RNA is involved in the translation of genetic information from DNA into proteins, acting as a messenger and a template for protein synthesis. The Importance of Macromolecules in Life Macromolecules are essential for life, providing structural support, storing energy, facilitating chemical reactions, and carrying genetic information. Their intricate structures and diverse functions enable the complex processes that sustain life.