macromolecules

marcromolecule

a large molecule made of smallerl subunits called monomers, which link together to form polymers. these molecules are complex and essential for life 

Four main classes of macromolecules

• proteins (amino acids)

• carbs (sugars, mono, di, poly saccharides)

  • lipids/fats (triglycerides, phospholipids, steroids, eicosanoids)

Molecules found in carbs

CHO

carbon, hydrogen, oxygen

types of carbs

monosaccharides: simple sugars, linear or ring form. ex. glucose, fructose, galactose

disaccharides: two monosaccharides linked by bonds. ex. maltose, sucrose

polysaccharides: chains of monosaccharides.

• storage: glycogen, starch

  • structural: cellulose

storage carbs

• glycogen in liver and muscles

  • starch in plants

soluble fiber

sources: whole grains, vegetables, legumes, fruits 

benefits: lowers cholesterol, slows glucose absorption, softens stool 

insoluble fiber

sources: vegetables, brown rice, wheat bran

benefits: increases GI tract motility, increaes fecal bulk, reduces constipation

structure of fats

triglycerides: glycerol and 3 fatty acids. functions for energy storage and insulation and protection

phospholipids: glycerol and 2 fatty acids, and phosphate group. they are amphipathic, and functions in cellular membranes

steroids: four ring structure, hormones (cortisol, estorgen) or cholesterol

eicosanoids: signalling molecules, ex, prostaglandins or leukotrienes

saturated fatty acids

no double bonds, straight chains, solid at room temp

butter- stearic acid

unsaturated fatty acids 

one or more double bonds, bent chains, liquid at room temp. 

oleic acid— oil 

phospholipids

glycerol, 2 fatty acids (tails) and phosphate group (head)

functions of proteins

• transport

• protection

• enzymes

• regulation of hormones

• muscle contraction

  • structural support

protein denaturation

protein loses 3D shape due to heat, pH or chemicals.

function is lost.

renaturation is rare

structure of a nucleotide

• phosphate group

• pentose sugar

  • nitrogenous bases (ACTG in DNA) (AUCG in RNA)

types of nucleic acids

DNA: double stranded, double helix. stores genetic information.

RNA: single stranded, guides protein synthesis