Biomolekyyliä

Biomolekyyliä, or biomolecules, are the complex molecules that are essential for the structure and function of living organisms. These organic compounds are synthesized by living cells and are the building blocks of life. The four major classes of biomolecules are carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids.

Carbohydrates, such as sugars and starches, are the primary source of energy for cells. They are composed of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen atoms and can be simple sugars like glucose or complex polysaccharides like glycogen. Lipids, or fats, are also composed of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen, but in different proportions. They are crucial for energy storage, cell membrane structure, and insulation. Examples include triglycerides and phospholipids.

Proteins are the workhorses of the cell, performing a vast array of functions. They are made up of amino acids linked together in long chains. Proteins are involved in catalysis (as enzymes), structural support, transport, signaling, and defense. Nucleic acids, DNA and RNA, carry the genetic information of an organism. They are polymers of nucleotides, each consisting of a sugar, a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base. DNA stores the genetic blueprint, while RNA plays various roles in protein synthesis and gene regulation. Together, these biomolecules form the intricate machinery of life.