Building Blocks of Life Biomolecules and Nutrients.pptx

Building Blocks of Life: Biomolecules and Nutrients

An overview of the essential biomolecules and nutrients that form the foundation of living organisms.

What happens to your body when you eat food? How does it help you?"

Exploring Life's Building Blocks: Biomolecules and Nutrients

Life is composed of a vast array of biomolecules, which are the fundamental building blocks that make up all living organisms. These biomolecules, including proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, and nucleic acids, play crucial roles in the structure, function, and energy production of cells. Understanding the nature and interactions of these biomolecules is essential for comprehending the complex processes that sustain life.

Introduction to Biomolecules

Carbohydrates

Proteins

Lipids

Nucleic Acids

Provide energy, structural support, and signaling functions in living organisms.

Serve as enzymes, structural components, transport carriers, and regulatory molecules.

Include fats, oils, and waxes that provide energy storage, cell membrane structure, and signaling functions.

DNA and RNA store and transmit genetic information, and direct the synthesis of proteins.

Biomolecules are the fundamental building blocks of life, each with unique structures and essential roles in supporting vital processes.

Carbohydrates and Proteins

Carbohydrates as Energy Source

Proteins as Building Blocks

Protein Functions

Carbohydrates are the primary source of energy for cells in the body. They are broken down into glucose, which is then used by cells to produce ATP, the currency of energy in the body.

Proteins are the building blocks of body tissues, such as muscles, organs, and skin. They are essential for growth, repair, and maintenance of these tissues.

Proteins perform various functions in the body, including enzyme catalysis, immune response, transport, and structural support.

Carbohydrate Types

Protein Sources

Carbohydrates can be classified into simple sugars (monosaccharides), disaccharides, and complex carbohydrates (polysaccharides), each with different properties and functions.

Proteins can be obtained from various sources, such as meat, dairy, eggs, legumes, nuts, and whole grains, and are essential for a balanced and healthy diet.

Lipids and Nucleic Acids

Lipid Energy Storage

Lipid Cell Membranes

Lipids, such as fats and oils, are efficient energy storage molecules. They provide more than twice the energy density of carbohydrates, making them ideal for long-term energy reserves in the body.

Lipids, particularly phospholipids, are the primary structural components of cell membranes. These membranes act as barriers, regulating the movement of substances in and out of cells and organelles.

DNA Genetic Information Storage

RNA Genetic Information Transmission

Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) is the molecule that stores the genetic information necessary for the growth, development, function, and reproduction of all known living organisms.

Ribonucleic acid (RNA) is a molecule that transcribes and translates the genetic information stored in DNA, enabling the synthesis of the proteins required for cellular processes.

Types of Nutrients

Macronutrients

Micronutrents

Carbohydrates, Proteins, Fats

Vitamins, Minerals

Provide energy, build and repair tissues, and regulate body processes

Support various metabolic and physiological functions in the body

*Adapted from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2020-2025

The Importance of Biomolecules

Biomolecules are the fundamental building blocks that enable life processes, from the cellular level to the functioning of the entire organism. These complex molecules, including proteins, nucleic acids, carbohydrates, and lipids, play crucial roles in energy production, growth, repair, and genetic inheritance, ensuring the overall health and well-being of living organisms.

Balanced Nutrition

• Vitamins

Facilitate various metabolic reactions and support immune function, bone health, and other critical processes.

• Minerals

Crucial for maintaining fluid balance, nerve function, and bone strength, as well as supporting enzyme activities.

• Water

Crucial for transporting nutrients, regulating body temperature, and eliminating waste.

• Carbohydrates

Provide the body with energy and fuel for cellular processes.

• Proteins

Essential for building and repairing tissues, producing enzymes and hormones, and supporting the immune system.

• Fats

Necessary for insulating organs, absorbing vitamins, and maintaining healthy cell membranes.