Macromolecules

Last Updated : 10 Oct, 2023

Macromolecule is a large complex molecule, like nucleic acid, proteins, carbohydrates, and lipids. It is formed of recurring subunits called monomers. They include the basis of various life processes, such as giving energy, transferring and storing genetic information, and supporting cellular structures. Their diverse roles enable the functioning and growth of living organisms.

Table of Content

Definition of Macromolecule

Macromolecule is defined as molecule consisting of large number of molecules such as lipids, proteins, nucleic acid or synthetic polymers, made up from small subunits known as monomers.

What are Macromolecules?

A macromolecule consists of small subunits known as monomers that are linked together through a process known as polymerization. It forms long chains that leads to macromolecular structures. Polymerization process can occur through various mechanisms, such as condensation reactions (where water or another small molecule is eliminated) or addition reactions (where monomers simply add together).

Polymers, are called as macromolecules due to their large and complex nature. Proteins, nucleic acids (DNA and RNA), carbohydrates, and synthetic plastics are all examples of macromolecules formed through polymerization processes. The arrangement and sequence of monomers within the polymer chain decides the properties and functions of the resulting macromolecule, making them essential components of biological systems.

Types of Macromolecules

There are four main types of macromolecules:

Types-of-Macromolecules

Carbohydrates: Carbohydrates varies from simple sugars like glucose to complex polysaccharides like starch and cellulose. They are polymers of carbon, hydrogen and oxygen. They provide energy for cells and play an important role in forming cell structure and communication.
Nucleic acids: Nucleic acids consists of DNA and RNA and are polymers of nucleotides. They store and transmit genetic information, helps in the protein synthesis and regulates various cellular processes..
Proteins: Proteins are composed of amino acid monomers and play various roles in the body. Enzymes speed up chemical reactions, structural proteins provide support to cells and tissues, transport proteins move molecules within the body, and antibodies defend against pathogens.
Lipid: Lipids are a hydrophobic group of macromolecules. These include triglycerides, carotenoids, phospholipids, and steroids. Lipids encompass fats, phospholipids, and steroids. Fats store energy, phospholipids are essential for cell membranes, and steroids have various regulatory functions.

Macromolecules and Micromolecules

Monomers of macromolecules are known as Micromolecules. Various types of micromolecules are as follows:

Micromoelcules of carbohydrate are monosaccharides, also known as simple sugar.
Micromoelcules of protein are amino acids.
Micromoelcules of lipid are glycerol and fatty acids.
Micromoelcules of nucleic acid are nucleotides.

Examples of Macromolecule

The macromolecules are present in all kinds of foods, as enzyme in our body, form different cellular structure, etc. The examples of macromolecules are as follows:

Proteins
1. Food sources: Meat, eggs, dairy products, beans, and legumes.
2. Enzymes: Digestive enzymes in saliva and stomach, laundry detergents containing proteases for stain removal.

Carbohydrates
1. Food sources: Bread, rice, pasta, fruits, vegetables, and sweets.
2. Fiber: Dietary fiber present in whole grains and vegetables aids in digestion.
Nucleic Acids
1. DNA Testing: DNA analysis is used in forensic investigations and ancestry testing.
2. PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction): A molecular biology technique that amplifies DNA for various applications.
Lipids
1. Cooking Oils: Vegetable oils like olive oil and coconut oil used for cooking.
2. Lip balms and moisturizers: Lipids used in skincare products for hydration

Functions of Macromolecule

The macromolecules forms the basis of various life processes. The functions of macromolecules are as follows:

Proteins

Protein helps in catalyzing various chemical reactions.
It provide structural support and shape to cells and tissues.
Proteins as tranpoter, carry molecules across cell membranes.
Proteins transmit signals within and between cells.

Nucleic Acids (DNA and RNA)

Nucleic acid store and transmit hereditary information.
In protein synthesis it act as a guide for the production of proteins.

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates provide quick energy for various cellular activities.
It provides structural support by forming the cell wall in plants and exoskeletons in arthropods.

Lipids

Lipids store energy for later use.
In the cell membranes it form the structure of cell membranes.
Lipids provide thermal insulation and cushioning for organs.

Biomacromolecules - Definition, Types, Functions, Significance

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