Complex Organic Molecules: Proteins

This lecture explores the structure and function of complex organic molecules, focusing on the synthesis and degradation of polymers. It delves into the four main classes of macromolecules essential for life: proteins, nucleic acids, lipids, and carbohydrates. The lecture details the diverse functions of proteins, their various levels of structure, and their roles in catalyzing chemical reactions, providing structural support, storing amino acids, transporting substances, coordinating organism activities, and responding to external signals. It also covers the formation of polypeptide chains, the polarity of proteins, and the characteristics of the 20 amino acids. Additionally, it discusses the importance of post-translational modifications in regulating protein activity and gene expression.