Question

Chapter 3

• Explain the different Biological functions of Proteins.
• What are the monomers that make up proteins? What type of bond connects them?
• Describe the structure of an amino acid. How many are there and how do they differ?
• What are some of the different properties associated with amino acid side chains?
• What types of reactions make polypeptides? Break them down?
• Explain the different levels of protein structure and how they contribute to the shape of the protein. What are the shapes associated with secondary structure?
• What different types of chemical interactions contribute to protein structure?
• What occurs when a protein is denatured? What environmental conditions result in proteins being denatured?
• Briefly explain the role of proteins in catalysis (enzymatic function)
• What happens when the shape of a protein changes?

Chapter 6

• What is a Lipid?
• What are the Biological functions of Lipids?
• What are the three most important types of lipids found in cells?
• What is a triglyceride?
• How do fatty acids differ?
• Explain chemically and functionally the difference between saturated and unsaturated fats.
• What is structurally different between a phospholipid and a triglyceride?
• What are the different roles for phospholipids?
• How would saturated vs unsaturated fats impact the function of membranes?
• What are the different functions of Sterols? What are some of the different molecules that are made from cholesterol as a precursor?

Answer 1

Chapter 3

Ans 1 - Proteins are a class of macromolecules that perform a diverse range of functions for the cell. They help in metabolism by providing structural support and by acting as enzymes, carriers, or hormones.

Some functions are as follows:

1. hormones
   Many hormones are protein in nature; hormones control growth and metabolic activities of the body.

2. catalytic activities
   Enzymes are globular protein. Enzymes speed up the biochemical reactions and help indigestion.

3. Transport of oxygen
   A protein called hemoglobin contains iron atom which temporarily links with oxygen and releases it throughout the body.

Ans 2 - The building blocks of proteins (monomers) are amino acids, which contain elements such as H, N, O, C, and more. They are the monomers of the proteins. The monomers combine with each other via covalent bonds to form larger molecules known as polymers.

Chapter 6

Ans 1 - A lipid is chemically defined as a substance that is insoluble in water and soluble in alcohol, ether, and chloroform. Lipids are an important component of living cells. Together with carbohydrates and proteins, lipids are the main constituents of plant and animal cells. Cholesterol and triglycerides are lipids.

Ans 2 - The functions of lipids include storing energy, signaling, and acting as structural components of cell membranes. Lipids have applications in the cosmetic and food industries as well as in nanotechnology.