MVCC BIO 111 General Biology I - Unit 1 Study Guide

These flashcards cover key concepts from the study of biological macromolecules, including their structures, functions, and biochemical reactions.

Biological macromolecules

The four major groups of organic biological macromolecules are carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids.

Monomers vs. Polymers

Monomers are small, simple molecules that can join together to form polymers, which are larger, complex molecules.

Dehydration synthesis

A chemical reaction that involves the removal of water to form a new bond, typically during polymer formation.

Hydrolysis

A chemical reaction that involves the addition of water to break down a polymer into its monomers.

Carbohydrate monosaccharides

Examples include glucose (C6H12O6), fructose (C6H12O6), and galactose (C6H12O6); they serve as energy sources.

Disaccharides

Sucrose and lactose are disaccharides formed from monosaccharides through glycosidic bonds, which are covalent bonds between sugar molecules.

Polysaccharides

Starch and glycogen are energy storage polysaccharides; cellulose is a structural polysaccharide; chitin provides exoskeletal support for some organisms.

Health benefits of fiber

Fiber aids in digestion, helps regulate blood sugar levels, and lowers cholesterol.

Lipids

Common characteristics include hydrophobic nature; functions include energy storage, cellular structure (membranes), and signaling.

Triglyceride

A lipid composed of three fatty acids and one glycerol molecule; the subunits include fatty acids and glycerol.

Saturated vs. Unsaturated fatty acids

Saturated fatty acids have no double bonds and are typically solid at room temperature; unsaturated fatty acids have one or more double bonds and are usually liquid.

Trans fats

Trans fats are unhealthy fats linked to increased risk of heart disease.

Omega-3 fatty acids

These are beneficial fats important for heart health and reducing inflammation.

Omega-6 fatty acids

These fats are essential for health but must be consumed in balance with omega-3s.

Amphipathic phospholipids

Phospholipids have both hydrophilic (water-attracting) and hydrophobic (water-repelling) parts, making them essential for cell membranes.

Cholesterol

Cholesterol is vital for maintaining cell membrane fluidity and serves as a precursor for steroid hormones.

Proteins

Proteins play crucial roles in structure, function, and regulation of the body's tissues and organs.

Denaturation of proteins

Denaturation is a process that alters a protein's natural structure, often caused by changes in temperature, pH, or chemical exposure.

Amino acid structure

An amino acid consists of an α carbon, an amino group, a carboxyl group, and an R group (side chain) that varies between amino acids.

Types of R groups in amino acids

The five types of R groups include polar, nonpolar, acidic, basic, and unique side chains.

Peptide bond

A peptide bond forms between the carboxyl group of one amino acid and the amino group of another, releasing water.

Polypeptide vs. Protein

A polypeptide is a chain of amino acids, while a protein is a functional molecule that may consist of one or several polypeptides.

Four levels of protein structure

Proteins have four levels of structure: primary (amino acid sequence), secondary (local folding), tertiary (overall 3D shape), and quaternary (multiple chains).

Nucleotide structure

A nucleotide consists of three components: a phosphate group, a five-carbon sugar, and a nitrogenous base.

Types of nucleic acids

The two types of nucleic acids are DNA (stores genetic information) and RNA (involved in protein synthesis and gene expression).

Phosphodiester linkages

Phosphodiester linkages connect nucleotides in a polynucleotide chain, forming the backbone of DNA and RNA.