Key Concepts in Biological Macromolecules

These flashcards cover essential vocabulary related to macromolecules in biological systems, their structures, and functions.

Macromolecule

A large biological molecule, including carbohydrates, lipids, nucleic acids, and proteins.

Polymer

A substance that has a molecular structure built up from a large number of similar units bonded together.

Carbohydrate

A macromolecule that serves as a source of energy and provides structural support.

Nucleic Acid

Macromolecules that store genetic information and function in gene expression.

Protein

A macromolecule made up of one or more polypeptides that performs a variety of functions within biological systems.

Amino Acid (AA)

The monomer unit of proteins, consisting of a carboxyl group, an amino group, and a variable side chain.

DNA

Deoxyribonucleic acid, a nucleic acid that encodes the genetic instructions for the development of living organisms.

RNA

Ribonucleic acid, a nucleic acid that plays several roles in the coding, decoding, regulation, and expression of genes.

Hydrophobic

A property of molecules that do not mix well with water; characteristic of lipids.

Chaperonin

Proteins that assist in the proper folding of other proteins.