Biomolecule
A representation of the 3D structure of myoglobin, showing alpha helices, represented by ribbons. This protein was the first to have its structure solved by X-ray crystallography by Max Perutz and Sir John Cowdery Kendrew in 1958, for which they received a Nobel Prize in Chemistry.
A biomolecule is any molecule that is produced by a living organism. This includes large macromolecules such as proteins, polysaccharides, lipids, and nucleic acids, as well as many smaller molecule A more general name for this class of molecules is biogenic substances.
Types of biomolecules[change | change source]
A diverse range of biomolecules exist, including:
| Biomonomers | Bio-oligomers | Biopolymers | Covalent bond name between monomers |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amino acids | Oligopeptides | Polypeptides, proteins (hemoglobin...) | Peptide bond |
| Monosaccharides | Oligosaccharides | Polysaccharides (cellulose...) | Glycosidic bond |
| Nucleotides | Oligonucleotides | Polynucleotides, nucleic acids (DNA, RNA) | Phosphodiester bond |
