Biomolecules Flashcards

Study Notes

Proteins - Monomer

Composed of amino acids; there are 20 distinct types.
Amino acids are linked by peptide bonds.
Synthesized by ribosomes within the cell.

Proteins - Examples

Notable proteins include hemoglobin, insulin, keratin, collagen, actins, myosins.
Enzymes function as biological catalysts; antibodies are vital for immune response.
Blood clotting proteins play a crucial role in wound healing.

Proteins - Functions

Hemoglobin carries oxygen in red blood cells.
Insulin facilitates the transport of sugar into cells.
Structural role in muscles and tissues; acts as catalysts for biochemical reactions.
Essential for immune function and stopping bleeding.

Carbohydrates - Monomer

The basic unit is monosaccharide, simple sugars like glucose (C₆H₁₂O₆), galactose, and fructose.
Provide a primary energy source for the body.

Carbohydrates - Examples

Include ribose and deoxyribose in RNA and DNA respectively.
Disaccharides like sucrose, maltose, and lactose are formed from two monosaccharides.
Polysaccharides include starch, glycogen, cellulose, and chitin for energy storage and structural functions.

Carbohydrates - Functions

Sugars play a role in heredity material.
Serve as energy storage in plants (starch) and animals (glycogen).
Provide structure in plants (cellulose) and in the exoskeletons of insects.

Lipids - Monomer

Composed of one glycerol and fatty acids.
Saturated fatty acids are linked to adverse heart health; unsaturated fatty acids are beneficial.

Lipids - Examples

Fats are solid at room temperature; oils are liquid.
Includes waxes, phospholipids, steroids, and cholesterol.
Function as energy storers, hormones, and cellular components.

Lipids - Functions

Provide cushioning for organs and waterproofing for skin and feathers.
Insulate the body and store more energy per gram compared to other biomolecules.
Integral components of cell membranes; involved in hormone production.

Nucleic Acids - Monomer

Made up of nucleotides, which consist of a sugar, phosphate group, and nitrogenous base.

Nucleic Acids - Examples

Two primary types are DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) and RNA (ribonucleic acid).

Nucleic Acids - Functions

Serve as heredity material, crucial for genetic information storage and transfer.
Play a key role in the synthesis of proteins.

Description

Test your knowledge of proteins with these flashcards focusing on their monomers, examples, and functions. Learn about amino acids, key proteins like hemoglobin and insulin, and various roles proteins play in the body. Ideal for students studying biology or biochemistry.