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Concepts of Biomolecules


Introduction

  • Biomolecules are the molecules that make up the essential components of living organisms.

  • They play crucial roles in various biological processes and are fundamental to life itself.

Classification of Biomolecules

Biomolecules can be broadly categorized into four major groups:

  1. Carbohydrates:

    • Carbohydrates are organic compounds composed of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen in a 1:2:1 ratio (CH2O).

    • They serve as a primary source of energy and provide structural support in cells.

    • Examples include glucose, cellulose, and glycogen.

  2. Lipids:

    • Lipids are hydrophobic molecules that include fats, oils, and phospholipids.

    • They function as energy storage molecules, cell membrane components, and signalling molecules.

    • Examples include triglycerides, phospholipids, and cholesterol.

  3. Proteins:

    • Proteins are complex macromolecules composed of amino acids.

    • They have diverse functions, including enzyme catalysis, structural support, transport, and signaling.

    • Examples include enzymes, antibodies, and hemoglobin.

  4. Nucleic Acids:

    • Nucleic acids are macromolecules that store and transmit genetic information.

    • They include DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) and RNA (ribonucleic acid).

    • DNA carries genetic instructions, while RNA plays roles in protein synthesis and gene regulation.

Functions of Biomolecules

  1. Energy Storage:

    • Carbohydrates and lipids serve as energy storage molecules.

    • Carbohydrates are quickly converted into energy, while lipids are more energy-dense and serve as long-term energy reservoirs.

  2. Structural Support:

    • Carbohydrates (e.g., cellulose in plant cell walls) and proteins (e.g., collagen in connective tissues) provide structural support to cells and organisms.

  3. Catalysis:

    • Proteins, as enzymes, catalyze biochemical reactions by lowering activation energy.

    • Enzymes are crucial for metabolic processes.

  4. Information Storage and Transmission:

    • Nucleic acids (DNA and RNA) store and transmit genetic information from one generation to the next.

    • They carry instructions for protein synthesis and regulate gene expression.

  5. Transport:

    • Proteins, such as hemoglobin and membrane transport proteins, facilitate the transport of molecules (e.g., oxygen, ions) within organisms.

  6. Defense:

    • Antibodies, a type of protein, play a vital role in the immune system by defending against pathogens.

Conclusion

  • Biomolecules are the building blocks of life and are essential for the structure, function, and regulation of biological systems.

  • Understanding the properties and functions of biomolecules is fundamental to the fields of biochemistry, molecular biology, and biotechnology.

  • The diversity of biomolecules and their interactions contribute to the complexity and versatility of living organisms.


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