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Macromolecules. Basic Types. Storage Structural Informational. How to Build a Macromolecule. Stepwise addition of monomers Generally add via a condensation rxn. How to Build, con't. Monomers must be activated Energy for activation generally from ATP Build in one direction
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Basic Types • Storage • Structural • Informational
How to Build a Macromolecule • Stepwise addition of monomers • Generally add via a condensation rxn.
How to Build, con't. • Monomers must be activated • Energy for activation generally from ATP • Build in one direction • Resulting molecule has distinct "ends" • DNA/RNA: 5'3' • Proteins: N C ends • Carbohydrates: non-reducing and reducing ends
Self-assembly • Macromolecules self-assemble into larger, more complex systems • Example: protein folding • Denature • Renatures to native state
The power behind self-assembly • Non-covalent interactions • Hydrophobic interactions • Hydrogen bonds • Electrostatic interactions • Also drive assembly of supramolecular structures
Heirarchical assembly • "Modular components" • Mix and match • Easy quality control
Some types • Enzymes • Transport proteins • Nutrient/storage proteins • Contractile/motile proteins • Structural • Defense proteins • Regulatory proteins • Others Composed primarily of only 20 different amino acids