Major Biomolecules and Genetic Principles in Cells

Nucleic Acids

Polymers of nucleotides, include DNA and RNA.

DNA

Genetic material containing genes for protein synthesis.

RNA

Carries genetic messages from DNA to ribosomes.

Proteins

Polymers of amino acids with diverse functions.

Carbohydrates

Polymers of monosaccharides, energy stores in cells.

Lipids

Polymers of fatty acids, form cell membranes.

Cellular Proteins

Determine cell structure and function.

Structural Proteins

Form filaments and tubes, support cell shape.

Contractile Proteins

Facilitate muscle contraction, e.g., Myosin.

Hormonal Proteins

Regulate cellular activities, e.g., Insulin.

Transport Proteins

Bind and carry oxygen, e.g., Hemoglobin.

Functional Proteins

Act as enzymes, catalyze biochemical reactions.

Catabolic Enzymes

Break down large molecules for energy.

Anabolic Enzymes

Synthesize cellular molecules from smaller ones.

DNA Structure

Contains chromosomes with genes and nucleotides.

Gene

DNA segment coding for proteins or functions.

Chromosomes

Structures containing DNA, average human has 46.

Genetic Variation

Differences in traits due to genes and environment.

Nature vs. Nurture

Interaction of genes and environment affects traits.

Leptin

Hormone signaling fullness, involved in obesity.

GLP-1

Hormone stimulating insulin production, aids weight loss.

Phenylketonuria (PKU)

Genetic disorder affecting phenylalanine metabolism.

Diploid

Organisms with two copies of each chromosome.

Gametes

Haploid cells (sperm and egg) for reproduction.

Biological Evolution

Genetic changes in populations over generations.

Transmission Genetics

Study of trait inheritance from parents to offspring.

Population Genetics

Study of gene frequency changes in populations.

Molecular Genetics

Study of gene structure, function, and mutation.