Lab Introduction to Food Macromolecules

Lab: Introduction to Food Macromolecules Learning Objectives Identify the types of macromolecules found in food Identify the structure of carbohydrates, proteins, and lipids Detect macromolecules in food samples Introduction Macromolecules are very large molecules created by the polymerization of small units called monomers. Most of the macromolecules are present in everyday life, for instance in food. Learn about biological macromolecules There are several types of biological macromolecules: carbohydrates, proteins, lipids and nucleic acids. All macromolecules, except lipids, are polymers. A polymer is a long molecule composed of chains of monomers. Monomers are small molecules that serve as building blocks of polymers. In addition, there are also oligomers in nature. Oligomers are molecular complexes composed of a few monomer units, instead of the theoretical unlimited number of monomers. Dimers and trimers are oligomers composed of two and three monomers, respectively, such as lactose in milk for instance. However, in biochemistry, an oligomer usually refers to a macromolecular complex formed by noncovalent bonding of a few macromolecules, such as nucleic acids or proteins. An example is the oligomers found in many neurodegenerative diseases, such as the alpha-synuclein aggregations in Parkinson’s disease. Help your friend with your macromolecule knowledge In the Introduction to Food Macromolecules simulation, you will help your friend get a healthy diet and investigate the types of macromolecules found in food. By performing a series of biochemistry tests, you will know the contents of various food items. Can you use your macromolecule knowledge to convince your friend to change her diet to a healthier one? Part 1: Complete Labster Lab: Introduction to Food Macromolecules Part 2: Report and Reflection Purpose: Describe in complete sentences and in your own words, the purpose of this experiment. The purpose of this lab is to see the structural layout is for carbohydrates, lipids, nucleic acids and proteins. And how the monomers layout turns to polymers. Observations: Record three observations from the simulation. We identified the types of macromolecules found in food We identified the structure of carbohydrates, proteins, and lipids And were able to detect macromolecules in food samples Answer the questions below: 1. Describe the key functions of one of the cases of biomolecules you studied in this virtual lab AND include key structural details. Lipids perform three primary biological functions within the body: they serve as structural components of cell membranes, function as energy storehouses, and function as important signaling molecules. Found in fats, glycerophospholipids, sphingolipids and serving as membrane anchors for proteins and other biomolecules, fatty acids are important for energy storage, membrane structure 2. Choose a food in your house. What are some of the biomolecules you expect to be in this food and why? I chose my oatmeal. It has a lot of carbohydrates in it which will help to give energy. 3. Reflection: Consider what you learned from this simulation. Reflect on three to four key concepts that you learned in this lab exercise. How could the lessons learned in this virtual lab related to a real world situation in the community/world or your future career? Be specific in your answer (this should require 5-10 sentences). During this lab I learned how to identify the types of macromolecules found in food. I also learned how to identify the structure of carbohydrates, proteins, and lipids. Finally, I learned how to detect macromolecules in food samples. Grading Rubric: Activity Deliverable Points Part I Complete simulation and answer all questions Part II Complete lab report and answer questions 9 8 Purpose (1 point) Observations (3 points) Questions (2 points) Reflection (2 points) Total Complete all lab activities 17