Question

List the four classes of biological macromolecules. Then describe the basic structural components of each macromolecule class and the function of each class within the body.

Answer 1

The four classes of biological macromolecules are (1) Proteins, (2) Lipids, (3) Carbohydrates, (4) Nucleic Acids.

Proteins are made up of amino acids linked by peptide bonds. They have multiple functions, depending on the number of amino acids and its specific sequence. They serve as major workers composing motor and structural elements in the cell. They can also function as catalytic proteins (enzymes), as well as helpers for storage, signal, transport, reception, defensive, and contractile tasks.

Lipids are made up of fatty acids (a carboxylic acid with a hydrocarbon chain + terminal carboxyl group) and glycerols (organic compound made up of multiple hydroxyl groups). They are a hydrophobic compound that are used for energy storage, thermal insulation, protection, and chemical messengers. Lipids also regulate membrane permeability and aid in fat soluble vitamin production.

Carbohydrates are made up of monosaccharides which build up a polysaccharide (carbohydrates). Monosaccharides are basic sugars which cannot be broken down anymore by water (glucose, fructose, galactose). Carbohydrates' major functions include energy provision, blood glucose regulation, biological processes recognition, and breakdown of fatty acids for ketosis prevention.

Nucleic acids are made up of nucleotides which are organic molecules that forms the Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) and Ribonucleic acid (RNA). Their structure consists of a nitrogenous base, pentose, and an attached phosphate group. The function of nucleic acids are the creation and storage of genetic information.