W1-Biological Molecules

Monosaccharides

• The general formula for all monosaccharides is (CH2O)n.
• Ketose-based monosaccharides are a type of monosaccharide that contain a ketone group.

Naming Monosaccharides

• The number of carbon atoms in a monosaccharide determines its name, with trioses having three carbon atoms, tetroses having four, and so on.

Disaccharides

• A glycosidic bond, which releases H2O upon formation, connects two monosaccharides in a disaccharide.

Functions of Biomolecules

• The primary function of body fats is to provide energy and insulation.
• Nucleotides function as second messengers, sending signals within cells.
• Proteins associate to form quaternary structures.

Lipids

• Lipids/fats belong to the category of biomolecules that are carbon-based, except for some small inorganic molecules.

DNA and RNA

• DNA is more stable than RNA because it is a double-stranded molecule.

Carbohydrates

• The general formula for carbohydrates is (CH2O)n.

Cell Composition

• Macromolecules, such as proteins, carbohydrates, and nucleic acids, constitute about 90% of the total cell weight.

Biological Molecules

• Organic compounds, such as carbohydrates, proteins, and lipids, are the most common type of biological molecules on earth.
• Small molecules, such as glucose and ATP, play a crucial role in cells, serving as energy sources and building blocks for larger molecules.

Protein Structure

• Hydrogen bonds, ionic bonds, and disulfide bonds stabilize the tertiary structure of proteins.

Diabetes

• Insulin-dependent diabetes, also known as Type 1 diabetes, is caused by the inability of the body to produce enough insulin.

Membrane Structure

• Cholesterol molecules can intercalate into the membrane, reducing permeability for soluble molecules.