Biomolecules

Introduction to Biomolecules

• Biomolecules are the fundamental molecules that compose living organisms.
• Composed of three common elements: Carbon (C), Oxygen (O), and Hydrogen (H).
• There are four primary types of biomolecules:
  • Carbohydrates
  • Proteins
  • Lipids
  • Nucleic Acids
• The video explores each type in detail.

Carbohydrates

• Definition: Organic molecules containing carbon, oxygen, and hydrogen.
• Commonly found in foods: e.g., pizza, pasta.
• Types:
  • Monosaccharides: Single sugar molecules.
  • Disaccharides: Two sugar molecules.
  • Polysaccharides: Multiple sugar molecules.
• Functions:
  • Primarily serve as an energy source.
  • Comprise about 1% of total body weight.
• Energy Production:
  • Ingested carbohydrates are broken down into smaller molecules for cellular energy production.

Lipids

• Definition: Biomolecules that include fats and waxes, also consisting of carbon, oxygen, and hydrogen.
• Functions:
  • Serve as energy storage (fats).
  • Act as insulators.
  • Key structural components of cell membranes.
  • Chemical messengers (hormones).
• Body Composition:
  • Comprise approximately 19-20% of male body weight, slightly higher in females.

Proteins

• Definition: Complex biomolecules consisting of carbon, oxygen, hydrogen, and nitrogen.
• Functions:
  • Movement and support (muscles, bones).
  • Transport molecules within organisms.
  • Enzymatic functions (catalyzing reactions).
  • Messenger functions (e.g., hormones).
  • Immune defense (antibodies).
• Body Composition:
  • Constitute approximately 20% of total body weight.

Nucleic Acids

• Definition: The most complex biomolecules containing carbon, oxygen, hydrogen, nitrogen, and phosphorus.
• Types:
  • DNA (Deoxyribonucleic acid)
  • RNA (Ribonucleic acid)
• Functions:
  • Carry genetic information and instructions for protein synthesis.
  • DNA:
  • Located in the nucleus of cells, serving as the genetic blueprint.
  • Hereditary information passed from parents.
  • Specific to individuals, serving as a genetic marker.
  • Genes: Segments of DNA that provide instructions for proteins.
• Structure:
  • Composed of sugar molecules, nitrogenous bases, and phosphate groups.

Conclusion

• All biomolecules play essential roles in the body, ranging from energy supply to structural functions to genetic coding for proteins.
• Understanding their composition and function is critical for grasping biological processes.

Further Learning

• Anticipation for future videos on specific biomolecule processing, particularly protein synthesis.