Biomolecules Overview

Biomolecules Overview

• Biomolecules are the building blocks of life, found in all living organisms
• They are carbon-based compounds that carry out a variety of functions necessary for life

Types of Biomolecules

• Carbohydrates: provide energy and structure
  • Examples: glucose, starch, cellulose
  • Functions: energy source, structural component of cells
• Proteins: perform a wide range of functions
  • Examples: enzymes, hormones, structural proteins
  • Functions: catalyze reactions, regulate metabolic processes, provide structure and support
• Lipids: provide energy and structure
  • Examples: fats, oils, phospholipids
  • Functions: energy source, structural component of cells, hormone regulation
• Nucleic Acids: store and transmit genetic information
  • Examples: DNA, RNA
  • Functions: store genetic information, transmit genetic information from one generation to the next

Biomolecule Functions

• Energy Storage and Release: carbohydrates, lipids, and proteins can be broken down to release energy
• Structural Components: carbohydrates, proteins, and lipids provide structure and support to cells and organisms
• Regulatory Functions: proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids regulate metabolic processes and respond to stimuli
• Information Storage and Transmission: nucleic acids store and transmit genetic information

Biomolecule Interactions

• Hydrogen Bonding: weak bonds between biomolecules, important for structure and function
• Ionic Bonding: strong bonds between biomolecules, important for structure and function
• Van der Waals Forces: weak bonds between biomolecules, important for structure and function

Biomolecule Synthesis and Degradation

• Anabolism: synthesis of biomolecules from simpler molecules
• Catabolism: breakdown of biomolecules into simpler molecules
• Metabolic Pathways: series of chemical reactions that synthesize or degrade biomolecules