Introduction

Biomolecules are organic molecules essential for life. They include carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids. These molecules play a crucial role in cell structure, function, and metabolism. Understanding biomolecules is vital for NEET aspirants as they form the foundation of biochemistry and molecular biology.

Types of Biomolecules

1. Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates are organic compounds made of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen, primarily serving as energy sources.

Classification of Carbohydrates

• Monosaccharides – Simple sugars (e.g., Glucose, Fructose, Galactose).
• Disaccharides – Formed by two monosaccharides (e.g., Sucrose = Glucose + Fructose).
• Polysaccharides – Long chains of monosaccharides (e.g., Starch, Glycogen, Cellulose).

2. Proteins

Proteins are polymers of amino acids linked by peptide bonds. They perform structural, enzymatic, and regulatory functions.

Structure of Proteins

• Primary Structure – Sequence of amino acids.
• Secondary Structure – α-helix and β-pleated sheets.
• Tertiary Structure – Three-dimensional folding.
• Quaternary Structure – Multiple polypeptide chains.

3. Lipids

Lipids are hydrophobic molecules that serve as energy storage and membrane components.

Types of Lipids

• Simple Lipids – Fats and oils (e.g., Triglycerides).
• Compound Lipids – Contain additional groups (e.g., Phospholipids).
• Derived Lipids – Steroids and cholesterol.

4. Nucleic Acids

Nucleic acids store and transfer genetic information. They include DNA and RNA.

Types of Nucleic Acids

• DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid) – Genetic material in most organisms.
• RNA (Ribonucleic Acid) – Involved in protein synthesis.

Enzymes

Enzymes are biological catalysts that speed up biochemical reactions without being consumed.

Characteristics of Enzymes

• Highly specific to substrates.
• Function at optimal pH and temperature.
• Can be regulated by inhibitors and activators.

Types of Enzymes

• Oxidoreductases – Catalyze oxidation-reduction reactions.
• Transferases – Transfer functional groups.
• Hydrolases – Catalyze hydrolysis reactions.

Metabolism

Metabolism refers to all biochemical reactions occurring in living organisms.

Types of Metabolic Pathways

• Anabolism – Synthesis of complex molecules (e.g., Protein synthesis).
• Catabolism – Breakdown of molecules to release energy (e.g., Glycolysis).

Importance of Biomolecules

• Provide energy (Carbohydrates, Lipids).
• Build cellular structures (Proteins, Lipids).
• Store and transmit genetic information (DNA, RNA).
• Regulate biochemical reactions (Enzymes).

Conclusion

Biomolecules are the fundamental components of life, playing essential roles in structure, function, and metabolism. Understanding them is crucial for NEET aspirants preparing for biology and biochemistry-related topics.