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AAT Bioquest

What are the different types of biological macromolecules?

Posted April 28, 2022


Answer

Biological macromolecules are large molecules that are built from smaller organic (carbon-containing) molecules. There are four major types of biological macromolecules – proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, and nucleic acids. Each one of these is a critical component of the cell and performs a wide range of functions. 

  • Proteins: Proteins are polymers of amino acids. They perform an array of crucial functions from providing cell structure and accelerating chemical reactions to sending chemical signals and facilitating the synthesis of lipids and carbohydrates. Examples of proteins – enzymes, hormones, antibodies, keratin found in hair and nails.
  • Carbohydrates: Carbohydrates are polymers of oxygen, carbon, and hydrogen and can be classified as monosaccharides, disaccharides and polysaccharides. Carbohydrates are the main source of energy. They store energy and provide cells with quick short-term energy when they need it. They also provide structure to cell walls in plants. Examples of carbohydrates include sucrose, starch, glucose, cellulose, and chitin. 
  • Lipids: Lipids are made up of fatty acids and glycerol. They are the only hydrophobic macromolecules that do not dissolve in water. Lipids help in the formation of the cell membrane and hormones. They also act as stored fuel and provide cells with long term energy. Examples of lipids are fats, oils, grease, waxes, steroids, and phospholipids. 
  • Nucleic Acids: Nucleic acids are made up of nucleotides, which comprise a pentose and a phosphate group and a nitrogenous base group. The main function of nucleic acids is to store and pass on genetic information. Examples of nucleic acids are DNA and RNA. The DNA synthesizes into RNA and proteins. 
Additional resources

Interaction of nanoparticles with biological macromolecules: a review of molecular docking studies

Cell Navigator™ Fluorimetric Lipid Droplet Assay Kit *Green Fluorescence*