The Structure and

Function of
Macromolecules
(Carbohydrates)
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Many macromolecules consist of polymers
A polymer is a large molecule built up from
smaller building block molecules
Monomers (a.k.a., subunits) are the building
block molecules
The inherent differences between human
siblings reflect variations in polymers, particularly
DNA and proteins. Molecular differences
between unrelated individuals are more
extensive, and between species greater still . . .
The molecular logic of life is simple but elegant:
Small molecules common to all organisms are
ordered into unique macromolecules . . . For
each class (of compound) we will see that the
macromolecules have emergent properties not
found in their individual monomers.
Polymers, Monomers, and Lipids
polymer
category of
biomolecules
monomer
polysaccharide
carbohydrates
monosaccharides
polypeptides proteins amino acids
polynucleic acids RNA & DNA nucleotides
Lipid monomers are less persistent than the above monomers
Consequently, lipids are less-readily described using the same
polymeric terms
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Energy +
A.K.A., condensation reaction, dehydration reaction
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+ Energy
Enzymes are employed in biological systems to
effect most hydrolysis reactions
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Note Basic Formula:
(CH2O)n
Hence: Carbo (C)
Hydrate (H
2
O)
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2
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1C3
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4
2
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3C1
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4
Note Numerous Chiral Carbons
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Ring Forms (Glucose)
These are all Glucose
Memorize this structure
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Disaccharide Synthesis
The reactions, the names of the sugars, and whether
they are mono- or disaccharides is what you should
know (also, Glycosidic linkage)
Energy +
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A sugar polymer
Glucose is the most
common
monosaccharide
Starches
more branching
carbon and energy (glucose) storage molecules
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Know the
difference
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Cellulose is a
Structural
polysaccharide
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Most
organisms
cannot digest
(hydrolyze)
cellulose
Organisms that can digest cellulose include the
microorganisms living the gastrointestinal tract
of many organisms typified especially by cows
and termites and many fungi (i.e., the things
that eat the wood of fallen trees)
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Chitin is another example of a structural carbohydrate.
Chitin is found in the exoskeletons of insects, spiders,
and crustaceans. Chitin is also found in the cell walls of
fungi. Chitin is leathery in pure form but is hardened in
most uses via the deposition of calcium carbonate.