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Biomolecules Study Notes with Diagrams PDF Free Download

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Biomolecules Study Notes with Diagrams PDF Free Download
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Bee Hyder

@beehyder_lanm

·

111 Followers

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Biomolecules are essential components of living organisms, serving as building blocks for life. This comprehensive guide explores the structure, function, and importance of various biomolecules, including carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids. Understanding these fundamental biological molecules is crucial for students studying biology, biochemistry, and related fields.

Key points covered:
• Definition and classification of biomolecules
• Monomers and polymers in biological systems
• Structure and function of carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids
• Importance of biomolecules in cellular processes and energy storage
• Examples of complex carbohydrates and their functions in living organisms

This guide provides detailed explanations, diagrams, and examples to help students grasp the concepts of biomolecules, making it an invaluable resource for exam preparation and in-depth understanding of biological molecules.

10/4/2023

468

BIO H. 101
Biomolecules
Biomolecules are also sometimes referred to as macromolecules.
They are large complex compounds that are built from

View

Lipids

Lipids are a diverse group of biomolecules that include fats, oils, waxes, and hormones. This page explores the structure, properties, and functions of lipids in biological systems.

Key Characteristics of Lipids:

  • Molecule Type: Non-polar
  • In water: Hydrophobic (cannot dissolve in water)
  • Function: Long-term energy storage, insulation, cell membrane formation, and cell signaling
  • Composition: Carbon, Hydrogen, and Oxygen (with a high proportion of carbon and hydrogen, and very little oxygen)

Highlight: Lipids are unique among biomolecules as they don't have a monomer. Instead, they are made up of a combination of glycerol and fatty acids.

Lipid Structures:

  1. Fatty Acids:

    • Saturated: No double bonds, solid at room temperature (e.g., animal fats)
    • Unsaturated: Some double bonds, liquid at room temperature (e.g., plant oils)
  2. Triglycerides:

    • Three fatty acid chains bonded together with glycerol
    • Store energy in carbon-carbon bonds
    • The type of fat stored in fat cells (adipocytes)
  3. Hormones:

    • Lipids acting as chemical messengers
    • Examples: Adrenaline/epinephrine, Human Growth Hormone, HCG
  4. Steroids:

    • A class of lipids that include hormones
    • Made up of 4 Carbon/Hydrogen rings and very little Oxygen
  5. Phospholipids:

    • Make up cell membranes
    • Consist of 2 fatty acid chains, an amino acid, and a phosphate group
    • Have a hydrophobic tail and a hydrophilic head

Vocabulary:

  • Hydrophilic: loves water
  • Hydrophobic: afraid of/hates water

Understanding the structure and function of lipids is crucial for students studying biomolecules and their roles in living organisms. This knowledge is essential for grasping concepts related to energy storage, cell membrane structure, and hormone signaling in biological systems.

BIO H. 101
Biomolecules
Biomolecules are also sometimes referred to as macromolecules.
They are large complex compounds that are built from

View

Introduction to Biomolecules

Biomolecules, also known as macromolecules, are large complex compounds built from smaller molecules. This page introduces the concept of monomers and polymers, which are fundamental to understanding biomolecules.

Definition: Monomers are smaller compounds that join together to create polymers.

Example: A textbook page is like a monomer, while the entire textbook represents a polymer.

The process of joining monomers to form polymers involves two key reactions:

  1. Dehydration synthesis: This process removes water from between two or more monomers to bond them and create a polymer. It is responsible for building all biomolecules from monomers to polymers.

  2. Hydrolysis: This chemical reaction adds water between the bonds of polymers to break them down into separate monomers. It is how water dissolves substances.

Vocabulary:

  • Hydro: water
  • Lysis: to break/cut/burst

Understanding the concepts of monomers and polymers in biology is crucial for grasping the structure and function of biomolecules. This knowledge forms the foundation for studying more complex biological molecules and their roles in living organisms.

BIO H. 101
Biomolecules
Biomolecules are also sometimes referred to as macromolecules.
They are large complex compounds that are built from

View

Nucleic Acids

Nucleic acids are complex biomolecules that store and transmit genetic information. This page explores the structure, properties, and functions of nucleic acids in biological systems.

Types of Nucleic Acids:

  1. DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid)
  2. RNA (Ribonucleic Acid)

Nucleic Acid Structure:

  • Nucleotides: Building blocks (monomers) of nucleic acids
  • Composed of a sugar, a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base

Vocabulary:

  • Purine bases: Adenine (A) and Guanine (G)
  • Pyrimidine bases: Cytosine (C), Thymine (T), and Uracil (U)

DNA Structure:

  • Double helix structure
  • Complementary base pairing: A-T, C-G
  • Sugar: Deoxyribose

RNA Structure:

  • Single-stranded (usually)
  • Complementary base pairing: A-U, C-G
  • Sugar: Ribose

Functions of Nucleic Acids:

  • DNA: Stores genetic information
  • RNA: Involved in protein synthesis (mRNA, tRNA, rRNA)

Example: The central dogma of molecular biology: DNA → RNA → Protein

Understanding nucleic acid structure and function is crucial for students studying biomolecules and their roles in living organisms. This knowledge is essential for grasping concepts related to genetics, protein synthesis, and cellular processes.

BIO H. 101
Biomolecules
Biomolecules are also sometimes referred to as macromolecules.
They are large complex compounds that are built from

View

Advanced Topics in Biomolecules

This page covers advanced concepts related to biomolecules, exploring cutting-edge research and emerging fields in molecular biology and biochemistry.

Proteomics:

  • Study of the entire set of proteins expressed by a cell, tissue, or organism
  • Applications in biomarker discovery and personalized medicine

Definition: Proteome - The complete set of proteins expressed by an organism at a given time

Metabolomics:

  • Comprehensive study of small molecule metabolites in biological systems
  • Provides insights into cellular processes and metabolic pathways

Synthetic Biology:

  • Engineering biological systems to create new functions
  • Designing and constructing novel biomolecules and biological circuits

Example: Creating artificial enzymes to catalyze reactions not found in nature

Biomolecular Interactions:

  • Protein-protein interactions
  • Protein-nucleic acid interactions
  • Small molecule-biomolecule interactions

Highlight: Understanding biomolecular interactions is crucial for drug discovery and development.

Structural Biology:

  • Advanced techniques for studying biomolecule structures:
    • X-ray crystallography
    • Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopy
    • Cryo-electron microscopy

Computational Biology:

  • Molecular dynamics simulations
  • Protein structure prediction
  • Systems biology modeling

Understanding these advanced topics in biomolecules is essential for students pursuing research careers in molecular biology, biochemistry, and related fields. This knowledge opens up new possibilities for scientific discovery and technological innovation.

BIO H. 101
Biomolecules
Biomolecules are also sometimes referred to as macromolecules.
They are large complex compounds that are built from

View

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates are essential biomolecules that serve as simple and complex sugars in living organisms. This page delves into the different types of carbohydrates and their functions.

Types of Carbohydrates:

  1. Monosaccharides (simple sugars):

    • Basic monomers that can combine to make complex sugars
    • Examples: glucose, ribose, fructose
  2. Disaccharides (complex sugars):

    • Combination of two simple sugars acting as one unit
    • Examples: sucrose, lactose, maltose
  3. Polysaccharides (complex sugars):

    • More than 2 sugars combined
    • Examples: cellulose, glycogen, starch

Example: Starch is a complex sugar made up of chains of glucose found in potatoes, grains, and roots. It is used to store energy and is found in fruits, vegetables, grains, potatoes, pasta, and bread.

Highlight: Glycogen is another complex sugar made up of long chains of glucose, but it is not found in plants. Instead, it is how our liver stores excess glucose as a large polymer.

Definition: Cellulose is a complex sugar consisting of long chains of glucose used for structure in plants. It makes up the plant cell wall and is the "fiber" needed in our diet.

Carbohydrate Facts:

  • Molecule type: Polar
  • In water: Hydrophilic
  • Composition: Carbon, Hydrogen, and Oxygen (C, H, O) in a 1:2:1 ratio
  • Energy storage: Carbohydrates are used for short-term energy storage and structural support

Understanding the structure and function of carbohydrates is crucial for students studying biomolecules and their roles in living organisms. This knowledge is essential for grasping concepts related to energy storage, cellular structure, and metabolism.

BIO H. 101
Biomolecules
Biomolecules are also sometimes referred to as macromolecules.
They are large complex compounds that are built from

View

Biomolecules in Human Health and Disease

This page explores the role of biomolecules in human health and various diseases, emphasizing the importance of understanding these molecules for medical applications.

Carbohydrates and Health:

  • Diabetes: Impaired glucose metabolism
  • Celiac disease: Intolerance to gluten proteins in certain grains

Example: In Type 2 diabetes, cells become resistant to insulin, leading to high blood glucose levels.

Lipids and Health:

  • Cardiovascular disease: Linked to high cholesterol and triglyceride levels
  • Obesity: Excess storage of triglycerides in adipose tissue

Proteins and Health:

  • Enzyme deficiencies: Can lead to metabolic disorders
  • Prion diseases: Caused by misfolded proteins

Highlight: Many genetic disorders result from mutations affecting protein structure or function.

Nucleic Acids and Health:

  • Genetic disorders: Caused by mutations in DNA
  • Cancer: Often involves changes in genes controlling cell growth and division

Biomolecules in Medicine:

  • Drug design: Targeting specific biomolecules for therapeutic effects
  • Personalized medicine: Using genetic information to tailor treatments

Vocabulary:

  • Pharmacogenomics: The study of how genes affect a person's response to drugs

Understanding the role of biomolecules in health and disease is crucial for students pursuing careers in medicine, pharmacology, and biotechnology. This knowledge forms the foundation for developing new treatments and diagnostic tools.

BIO H. 101
Biomolecules
Biomolecules are also sometimes referred to as macromolecules.
They are large complex compounds that are built from

View

Enzymes

Enzymes are specialized proteins that act as biological catalysts, accelerating chemical reactions in living organisms. This page explores the structure, properties, and functions of enzymes as essential biomolecules.

Enzyme Structure:

  • Composed of amino acids
  • Active site: Specific region where substrates bind

Definition: Substrate - The molecule(s) on which an enzyme acts

Enzyme Function:

  • Lower activation energy for chemical reactions
  • Highly specific to their substrates
  • Can be regulated by various factors (e.g., temperature, pH, inhibitors)

Example: Amylase is an enzyme that breaks down starch into simpler sugars.

Enzyme Kinetics:

  • Michaelis-Menten equation: Describes the rate of enzymatic reactions
  • Factors affecting enzyme activity: Substrate concentration, enzyme concentration, temperature, pH

Highlight: Enzymes are not consumed in the reactions they catalyze and can be reused multiple times.

Enzyme Inhibition:

  1. Competitive inhibition: Inhibitor competes with substrate for the active site
  2. Non-competitive inhibition: Inhibitor binds to a different site, changing enzyme shape

Understanding enzyme structure and function is crucial for students studying biomolecules and their roles in living organisms. This knowledge is essential for grasping concepts related to metabolism, cellular processes, and biochemical reactions.

BIO H. 101
Biomolecules
Biomolecules are also sometimes referred to as macromolecules.
They are large complex compounds that are built from

View

Proteins

Proteins are essential biomolecules that play crucial roles in various biological processes. This page explores the structure, properties, and functions of proteins in living organisms.

Protein Structure:

  1. Primary Structure: The sequence of amino acids
  2. Secondary Structure: Local folding patterns (alpha helices and beta sheets)
  3. Tertiary Structure: Overall 3D shape of a single protein molecule
  4. Quaternary Structure: Arrangement of multiple protein subunits

Definition: Amino acids are the building blocks (monomers) of proteins. There are 20 different amino acids used to make proteins.

Protein Functions:

  • Enzymes: Catalyze chemical reactions
  • Structural proteins: Provide support and strength (e.g., collagen)
  • Transport proteins: Move molecules across cell membranes
  • Hormones: Regulate bodily functions
  • Antibodies: Defend against foreign substances

Example: Hemoglobin is a protein that transports oxygen in red blood cells.

Protein Synthesis:

  1. Transcription: DNA is transcribed into mRNA
  2. Translation: mRNA is translated into a protein by ribosomes

Highlight: The sequence of amino acids determines the protein's structure and function.

Understanding protein structure and function is crucial for students studying biomolecules and their roles in living organisms. This knowledge is essential for grasping concepts related to enzyme activity, cellular processes, and genetic expression.

BIO H. 101
Biomolecules
Biomolecules are also sometimes referred to as macromolecules.
They are large complex compounds that are built from

View

Biomolecules in Cellular Processes

This page explores how various biomolecules work together in cellular processes, highlighting their interconnected roles in maintaining life.

Cellular Respiration:

  • Carbohydrates: Provide glucose for energy production
  • Proteins: Enzymes catalyze reactions in glycolysis, Krebs cycle, and electron transport chain
  • Lipids: Can be broken down for energy in beta-oxidation

Example: Glucose is broken down through glycolysis, producing pyruvate and ATP.

Photosynthesis:

  • Proteins: Enzymes and light-harvesting complexes
  • Carbohydrates: End product (glucose) and Calvin cycle intermediates
  • Lipids: Thylakoid membrane components

Cell Signaling:

  • Proteins: Receptors, kinases, and transcription factors
  • Lipids: Hormones and second messengers
  • Carbohydrates: Cell surface recognition molecules

Highlight: Cell signaling pathways often involve multiple types of biomolecules working in concert.

DNA Replication and Protein Synthesis:

  • Nucleic acids: DNA template and RNA intermediates
  • Proteins: DNA polymerase, RNA polymerase, ribosomes
  • Carbohydrates: Ribose sugar in nucleic acid backbone

Understanding how different biomolecules interact in cellular processes is crucial for students studying biology and biochemistry. This knowledge provides a comprehensive view of how life functions at the molecular level.

BIO H. 101
Biomolecules
Biomolecules are also sometimes referred to as macromolecules.
They are large complex compounds that are built from

View

Review and Study Guide

This final page serves as a comprehensive review of the key concepts covered in this guide on biomolecules, providing a valuable study resource for students.

Key Biomolecules:

  1. Carbohydrates
  2. Lipids
  3. Proteins
  4. Nucleic Acids

Highlight: Each biomolecule has unique structures and functions essential for life processes.

Important Concepts:

  • Monomers and polymers
  • Dehydration synthesis and hydrolysis
  • Enzyme function and kinetics
  • DNA replication and protein synthesis
  • Cellular respiration and photosynthesis

Example: Glucose is a monomer of complex carbohydrates like starch and cellulose.

Biomolecules in Cellular Processes:

  • Energy storage and metabolism
  • Cell signaling and communication
  • Genetic information storage and expression
  • Structural support and cellular organization

Applications of Biomolecules:

  • Medicine and drug development
  • Biotechnology and genetic engineering
  • Food science and agriculture
  • Environmental science and bioremediation

Vocabulary:

  • Biotechnology: The use of biological systems or living organisms to develop or create different products

Study Tips:

  1. Create concept maps linking different biomolecules and their functions
  2. Practice drawing and labeling structures of key biomolecules
  3. Review real-world applications to understand the relevance of biomolecules
  4. Use flashcards for important terms and definitions
  5. Solve practice problems related to enzyme kinetics and metabolic pathways

This comprehensive review of biomolecules provides students with a solid foundation for understanding the fundamental building blocks of life. Mastering these concepts is crucial for success in biology, biochemistry, and related fields.

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Biomolecules Study Notes with Diagrams PDF Free Download

user profile picture

Bee Hyder

@beehyder_lanm

·

111 Followers

Follow

Biomolecules are essential components of living organisms, serving as building blocks for life. This comprehensive guide explores the structure, function, and importance of various biomolecules, including carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids. Understanding these fundamental biological molecules is crucial for students studying biology, biochemistry, and related fields.

Key points covered:
• Definition and classification of biomolecules
• Monomers and polymers in biological systems
• Structure and function of carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids
• Importance of biomolecules in cellular processes and energy storage
• Examples of complex carbohydrates and their functions in living organisms

This guide provides detailed explanations, diagrams, and examples to help students grasp the concepts of biomolecules, making it an invaluable resource for exam preparation and in-depth understanding of biological molecules.

10/4/2023

468

 

9th/10th

 

Biology

71

BIO H. 101
Biomolecules
Biomolecules are also sometimes referred to as macromolecules.
They are large complex compounds that are built from

Lipids

Lipids are a diverse group of biomolecules that include fats, oils, waxes, and hormones. This page explores the structure, properties, and functions of lipids in biological systems.

Key Characteristics of Lipids:

  • Molecule Type: Non-polar
  • In water: Hydrophobic (cannot dissolve in water)
  • Function: Long-term energy storage, insulation, cell membrane formation, and cell signaling
  • Composition: Carbon, Hydrogen, and Oxygen (with a high proportion of carbon and hydrogen, and very little oxygen)

Highlight: Lipids are unique among biomolecules as they don't have a monomer. Instead, they are made up of a combination of glycerol and fatty acids.

Lipid Structures:

  1. Fatty Acids:

    • Saturated: No double bonds, solid at room temperature (e.g., animal fats)
    • Unsaturated: Some double bonds, liquid at room temperature (e.g., plant oils)
  2. Triglycerides:

    • Three fatty acid chains bonded together with glycerol
    • Store energy in carbon-carbon bonds
    • The type of fat stored in fat cells (adipocytes)
  3. Hormones:

    • Lipids acting as chemical messengers
    • Examples: Adrenaline/epinephrine, Human Growth Hormone, HCG
  4. Steroids:

    • A class of lipids that include hormones
    • Made up of 4 Carbon/Hydrogen rings and very little Oxygen
  5. Phospholipids:

    • Make up cell membranes
    • Consist of 2 fatty acid chains, an amino acid, and a phosphate group
    • Have a hydrophobic tail and a hydrophilic head

Vocabulary:

  • Hydrophilic: loves water
  • Hydrophobic: afraid of/hates water

Understanding the structure and function of lipids is crucial for students studying biomolecules and their roles in living organisms. This knowledge is essential for grasping concepts related to energy storage, cell membrane structure, and hormone signaling in biological systems.

BIO H. 101
Biomolecules
Biomolecules are also sometimes referred to as macromolecules.
They are large complex compounds that are built from

Introduction to Biomolecules

Biomolecules, also known as macromolecules, are large complex compounds built from smaller molecules. This page introduces the concept of monomers and polymers, which are fundamental to understanding biomolecules.

Definition: Monomers are smaller compounds that join together to create polymers.

Example: A textbook page is like a monomer, while the entire textbook represents a polymer.

The process of joining monomers to form polymers involves two key reactions:

  1. Dehydration synthesis: This process removes water from between two or more monomers to bond them and create a polymer. It is responsible for building all biomolecules from monomers to polymers.

  2. Hydrolysis: This chemical reaction adds water between the bonds of polymers to break them down into separate monomers. It is how water dissolves substances.

Vocabulary:

  • Hydro: water
  • Lysis: to break/cut/burst

Understanding the concepts of monomers and polymers in biology is crucial for grasping the structure and function of biomolecules. This knowledge forms the foundation for studying more complex biological molecules and their roles in living organisms.

BIO H. 101
Biomolecules
Biomolecules are also sometimes referred to as macromolecules.
They are large complex compounds that are built from

Nucleic Acids

Nucleic acids are complex biomolecules that store and transmit genetic information. This page explores the structure, properties, and functions of nucleic acids in biological systems.

Types of Nucleic Acids:

  1. DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid)
  2. RNA (Ribonucleic Acid)

Nucleic Acid Structure:

  • Nucleotides: Building blocks (monomers) of nucleic acids
  • Composed of a sugar, a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base

Vocabulary:

  • Purine bases: Adenine (A) and Guanine (G)
  • Pyrimidine bases: Cytosine (C), Thymine (T), and Uracil (U)

DNA Structure:

  • Double helix structure
  • Complementary base pairing: A-T, C-G
  • Sugar: Deoxyribose

RNA Structure:

  • Single-stranded (usually)
  • Complementary base pairing: A-U, C-G
  • Sugar: Ribose

Functions of Nucleic Acids:

  • DNA: Stores genetic information
  • RNA: Involved in protein synthesis (mRNA, tRNA, rRNA)

Example: The central dogma of molecular biology: DNA → RNA → Protein

Understanding nucleic acid structure and function is crucial for students studying biomolecules and their roles in living organisms. This knowledge is essential for grasping concepts related to genetics, protein synthesis, and cellular processes.

BIO H. 101
Biomolecules
Biomolecules are also sometimes referred to as macromolecules.
They are large complex compounds that are built from

Advanced Topics in Biomolecules

This page covers advanced concepts related to biomolecules, exploring cutting-edge research and emerging fields in molecular biology and biochemistry.

Proteomics:

  • Study of the entire set of proteins expressed by a cell, tissue, or organism
  • Applications in biomarker discovery and personalized medicine

Definition: Proteome - The complete set of proteins expressed by an organism at a given time

Metabolomics:

  • Comprehensive study of small molecule metabolites in biological systems
  • Provides insights into cellular processes and metabolic pathways

Synthetic Biology:

  • Engineering biological systems to create new functions
  • Designing and constructing novel biomolecules and biological circuits

Example: Creating artificial enzymes to catalyze reactions not found in nature

Biomolecular Interactions:

  • Protein-protein interactions
  • Protein-nucleic acid interactions
  • Small molecule-biomolecule interactions

Highlight: Understanding biomolecular interactions is crucial for drug discovery and development.

Structural Biology:

  • Advanced techniques for studying biomolecule structures:
    • X-ray crystallography
    • Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopy
    • Cryo-electron microscopy

Computational Biology:

  • Molecular dynamics simulations
  • Protein structure prediction
  • Systems biology modeling

Understanding these advanced topics in biomolecules is essential for students pursuing research careers in molecular biology, biochemistry, and related fields. This knowledge opens up new possibilities for scientific discovery and technological innovation.

BIO H. 101
Biomolecules
Biomolecules are also sometimes referred to as macromolecules.
They are large complex compounds that are built from

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates are essential biomolecules that serve as simple and complex sugars in living organisms. This page delves into the different types of carbohydrates and their functions.

Types of Carbohydrates:

  1. Monosaccharides (simple sugars):

    • Basic monomers that can combine to make complex sugars
    • Examples: glucose, ribose, fructose
  2. Disaccharides (complex sugars):

    • Combination of two simple sugars acting as one unit
    • Examples: sucrose, lactose, maltose
  3. Polysaccharides (complex sugars):

    • More than 2 sugars combined
    • Examples: cellulose, glycogen, starch

Example: Starch is a complex sugar made up of chains of glucose found in potatoes, grains, and roots. It is used to store energy and is found in fruits, vegetables, grains, potatoes, pasta, and bread.

Highlight: Glycogen is another complex sugar made up of long chains of glucose, but it is not found in plants. Instead, it is how our liver stores excess glucose as a large polymer.

Definition: Cellulose is a complex sugar consisting of long chains of glucose used for structure in plants. It makes up the plant cell wall and is the "fiber" needed in our diet.

Carbohydrate Facts:

  • Molecule type: Polar
  • In water: Hydrophilic
  • Composition: Carbon, Hydrogen, and Oxygen (C, H, O) in a 1:2:1 ratio
  • Energy storage: Carbohydrates are used for short-term energy storage and structural support

Understanding the structure and function of carbohydrates is crucial for students studying biomolecules and their roles in living organisms. This knowledge is essential for grasping concepts related to energy storage, cellular structure, and metabolism.

BIO H. 101
Biomolecules
Biomolecules are also sometimes referred to as macromolecules.
They are large complex compounds that are built from

Biomolecules in Human Health and Disease

This page explores the role of biomolecules in human health and various diseases, emphasizing the importance of understanding these molecules for medical applications.

Carbohydrates and Health:

  • Diabetes: Impaired glucose metabolism
  • Celiac disease: Intolerance to gluten proteins in certain grains

Example: In Type 2 diabetes, cells become resistant to insulin, leading to high blood glucose levels.

Lipids and Health:

  • Cardiovascular disease: Linked to high cholesterol and triglyceride levels
  • Obesity: Excess storage of triglycerides in adipose tissue

Proteins and Health:

  • Enzyme deficiencies: Can lead to metabolic disorders
  • Prion diseases: Caused by misfolded proteins

Highlight: Many genetic disorders result from mutations affecting protein structure or function.

Nucleic Acids and Health:

  • Genetic disorders: Caused by mutations in DNA
  • Cancer: Often involves changes in genes controlling cell growth and division

Biomolecules in Medicine:

  • Drug design: Targeting specific biomolecules for therapeutic effects
  • Personalized medicine: Using genetic information to tailor treatments

Vocabulary:

  • Pharmacogenomics: The study of how genes affect a person's response to drugs

Understanding the role of biomolecules in health and disease is crucial for students pursuing careers in medicine, pharmacology, and biotechnology. This knowledge forms the foundation for developing new treatments and diagnostic tools.

BIO H. 101
Biomolecules
Biomolecules are also sometimes referred to as macromolecules.
They are large complex compounds that are built from

Enzymes

Enzymes are specialized proteins that act as biological catalysts, accelerating chemical reactions in living organisms. This page explores the structure, properties, and functions of enzymes as essential biomolecules.

Enzyme Structure:

  • Composed of amino acids
  • Active site: Specific region where substrates bind

Definition: Substrate - The molecule(s) on which an enzyme acts

Enzyme Function:

  • Lower activation energy for chemical reactions
  • Highly specific to their substrates
  • Can be regulated by various factors (e.g., temperature, pH, inhibitors)

Example: Amylase is an enzyme that breaks down starch into simpler sugars.

Enzyme Kinetics:

  • Michaelis-Menten equation: Describes the rate of enzymatic reactions
  • Factors affecting enzyme activity: Substrate concentration, enzyme concentration, temperature, pH

Highlight: Enzymes are not consumed in the reactions they catalyze and can be reused multiple times.

Enzyme Inhibition:

  1. Competitive inhibition: Inhibitor competes with substrate for the active site
  2. Non-competitive inhibition: Inhibitor binds to a different site, changing enzyme shape

Understanding enzyme structure and function is crucial for students studying biomolecules and their roles in living organisms. This knowledge is essential for grasping concepts related to metabolism, cellular processes, and biochemical reactions.

BIO H. 101
Biomolecules
Biomolecules are also sometimes referred to as macromolecules.
They are large complex compounds that are built from

Proteins

Proteins are essential biomolecules that play crucial roles in various biological processes. This page explores the structure, properties, and functions of proteins in living organisms.

Protein Structure:

  1. Primary Structure: The sequence of amino acids
  2. Secondary Structure: Local folding patterns (alpha helices and beta sheets)
  3. Tertiary Structure: Overall 3D shape of a single protein molecule
  4. Quaternary Structure: Arrangement of multiple protein subunits

Definition: Amino acids are the building blocks (monomers) of proteins. There are 20 different amino acids used to make proteins.

Protein Functions:

  • Enzymes: Catalyze chemical reactions
  • Structural proteins: Provide support and strength (e.g., collagen)
  • Transport proteins: Move molecules across cell membranes
  • Hormones: Regulate bodily functions
  • Antibodies: Defend against foreign substances

Example: Hemoglobin is a protein that transports oxygen in red blood cells.

Protein Synthesis:

  1. Transcription: DNA is transcribed into mRNA
  2. Translation: mRNA is translated into a protein by ribosomes

Highlight: The sequence of amino acids determines the protein's structure and function.

Understanding protein structure and function is crucial for students studying biomolecules and their roles in living organisms. This knowledge is essential for grasping concepts related to enzyme activity, cellular processes, and genetic expression.

BIO H. 101
Biomolecules
Biomolecules are also sometimes referred to as macromolecules.
They are large complex compounds that are built from

Biomolecules in Cellular Processes

This page explores how various biomolecules work together in cellular processes, highlighting their interconnected roles in maintaining life.

Cellular Respiration:

  • Carbohydrates: Provide glucose for energy production
  • Proteins: Enzymes catalyze reactions in glycolysis, Krebs cycle, and electron transport chain
  • Lipids: Can be broken down for energy in beta-oxidation

Example: Glucose is broken down through glycolysis, producing pyruvate and ATP.

Photosynthesis:

  • Proteins: Enzymes and light-harvesting complexes
  • Carbohydrates: End product (glucose) and Calvin cycle intermediates
  • Lipids: Thylakoid membrane components

Cell Signaling:

  • Proteins: Receptors, kinases, and transcription factors
  • Lipids: Hormones and second messengers
  • Carbohydrates: Cell surface recognition molecules

Highlight: Cell signaling pathways often involve multiple types of biomolecules working in concert.

DNA Replication and Protein Synthesis:

  • Nucleic acids: DNA template and RNA intermediates
  • Proteins: DNA polymerase, RNA polymerase, ribosomes
  • Carbohydrates: Ribose sugar in nucleic acid backbone

Understanding how different biomolecules interact in cellular processes is crucial for students studying biology and biochemistry. This knowledge provides a comprehensive view of how life functions at the molecular level.

BIO H. 101
Biomolecules
Biomolecules are also sometimes referred to as macromolecules.
They are large complex compounds that are built from

Review and Study Guide

This final page serves as a comprehensive review of the key concepts covered in this guide on biomolecules, providing a valuable study resource for students.

Key Biomolecules:

  1. Carbohydrates
  2. Lipids
  3. Proteins
  4. Nucleic Acids

Highlight: Each biomolecule has unique structures and functions essential for life processes.

Important Concepts:

  • Monomers and polymers
  • Dehydration synthesis and hydrolysis
  • Enzyme function and kinetics
  • DNA replication and protein synthesis
  • Cellular respiration and photosynthesis

Example: Glucose is a monomer of complex carbohydrates like starch and cellulose.

Biomolecules in Cellular Processes:

  • Energy storage and metabolism
  • Cell signaling and communication
  • Genetic information storage and expression
  • Structural support and cellular organization

Applications of Biomolecules:

  • Medicine and drug development
  • Biotechnology and genetic engineering
  • Food science and agriculture
  • Environmental science and bioremediation

Vocabulary:

  • Biotechnology: The use of biological systems or living organisms to develop or create different products

Study Tips:

  1. Create concept maps linking different biomolecules and their functions
  2. Practice drawing and labeling structures of key biomolecules
  3. Review real-world applications to understand the relevance of biomolecules
  4. Use flashcards for important terms and definitions
  5. Solve practice problems related to enzyme kinetics and metabolic pathways

This comprehensive review of biomolecules provides students with a solid foundation for understanding the fundamental building blocks of life. Mastering these concepts is crucial for success in biology, biochemistry, and related fields.

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