In biochemistry, the major biomolecules studied are the molecules that make up living organisms and are essential for life. These include:
- Carbohydrates:
- Made of sugar units (monosaccharides, disaccharides, polysaccharides)
- Provide energy and structural support
- Examples: Glucose, Starch, Cellulose
- Proteins:
- Made of amino acids linked by peptide bonds
- Function as enzymes, structural components, transport molecules, and hormones
- Examples: Hemoglobin, Collagen, Insulin
- Lipids:
- Fats, oils, phospholipids, and steroids
- Store energy, form cell membranes, and act as signaling molecules
- Examples: Triglycerides, Phospholipids, Cholesterol
- Nucleic acids:
- Made of nucleotides
- Store and transmit genetic information and help in protein synthesis
- Examples: DNA, RNA
- Other biomolecules:
- Vitamins, hormones, and secondary metabolites that regulate and support biochemical processes
In short:
Biochemistry focuses on carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids, which are the main molecules that store energy, build structures, and carry genetic information in living organisms.