Biochemistry: Oligosaccharides and Lipids

A set of 50 flashcards covering key concepts about oligosaccharides, lipids, and their related biochemical properties.

What are oligosaccharides?

Carbohydrates containing three to ten monosaccharides.

What does the prefix 'oligo' mean?

It means 'few.'

What role do oligosaccharides play in the cell?

They act as identifiers or markers on cell membranes.

What is a well-known application of oligosaccharides in the human body?

They are involved in determining blood types.

What are the four main blood types?

Type A, Type B, Type AB, and Type O.

What distinguishes Type O blood from the other types?

Type O blood lacks A and B markers.

Why can Type O individuals be universal donors?

Type O blood does not contain A or B markers, which prevents rejection by other blood types.

What are the universal recipients in blood types?

Individuals with Type AB blood.

What is the importance of carbon in oligosaccharides?

Oligosaccharides and carbohydrates are structured around carbon atoms.

Define the term 'anomeric carbon.'

The carbon atom in a sugar that is involved in the formation of the glycosidic bond.

What is the difference between alpha and beta configurations?

Alpha has the OH group on the anomeric carbon pointing down, while beta has it pointing up.

What are essential fatty acids?

Fatty acids that the body cannot synthesize and must be obtained through diet.

Give two examples of essential fatty acids.

Linoleic acid (omega-6) and alpha-linolenic acid (omega-3).

What is the structure of a fatty acid?

Long hydrocarbon chains that terminate in a carboxylic acid.

What differentiates saturated from unsaturated fatty acids?

Saturated fatty acids have no double bonds, while unsaturated fatty acids have one or more double bonds.

What influences the state (solid or liquid) of fats?

The degree of saturation; saturated fats are typically solid, unsaturated fats are typically liquid.

What substance is commonly used to identify triglycerides?

Glycerol, which is a three-carbon alcohol.

What is the process called when a triglyceride is broken down into fatty acids?

Hydrolysis.

What are the two systems for naming fatty acids?

The omega system and the delta system.

Which system is primarily used by nutritionists?

The omega system.

How is the delta system of naming fatty acids structured?

The numbering starts from the carboxyl carbon of the chain.

What do double bonds in fatty acids create in the carbon chain?

Kinks in the structure.

Describe a trans fat. What makes it harmful?

Trans fats have a specific configuration that can lead to negative health effects.

What are typically high sources of omega-3 fatty acids?

Salmon, walnuts, flaxseed, and canola oil.

How does the body use carbohydrates?

As a source of energy for cellular functions.

What happens to excess carbohydrates in the body?

They are converted into fats for storage.

What characteristic is common to all lipids?

They are hydrophobic, meaning they do not mix well with water.

What is the primary role of lipids in biological systems?

They serve as structural components and store energy.

Why is it important to number carbon atoms when studying biomolecules?

Correctly numbering carbon atoms is essential for understanding and visualizing molecular structure.

What constitutes a triglyceride?

A molecule composed of three fatty acids attached to a glycerol molecule.

What is the main function of essential fatty acids?

They are necessary for various cellular functions and cannot be synthesized by the body.

What do unsaturated fats typically come from?

Plant sources and fish, often considered healthier than saturated fats.

What are the two types of confirmations for double bonds in fatty acids?

Cis and trans configurations.

What effect do saturated fats generally have on health?

They are often considered less healthy, especially when derived from red meat.

What type of fatty acids are generally considered bad for health?

Trans fatty acids.

What are common reactions where fatty acids can be synthesized?

Through metabolic pathways when the body has excess energy.

Describe the configuration of cis double bonds. Why are they significant?

They keep chains straight, which affects state and melting point.

Give an example of a biological function of fatty acids. How are they utilized?

Fatty acids are used in cell membranes to influence fluidity.

What are London dispersion forces?

Weak intermolecular forces that affect the physical properties of fatty acids.

How do the properties of fatty acids contribute to their function in biological systems?

Their saturation affects their ability to form membranes and store energy effectively.