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  • Biochemicals: Types, Examples & Their Role in Living Organisms
    Biochemicals are molecules that are found in living organisms and play a crucial role in their functions. They can be broadly categorized into:

    1. Carbohydrates:

    * Sugars: Glucose, fructose, sucrose, lactose, maltose

    * Polysaccharides: Starch, cellulose, glycogen

    2. Lipids:

    * Fats: Triglycerides, cholesterol

    * Phospholipids: Phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylserine

    * Steroids: Testosterone, estrogen

    3. Proteins:

    * Enzymes: Amylase, pepsin, lipase

    * Hormones: Insulin, glucagon, growth hormone

    * Antibodies: Immunoglobulin G, immunoglobulin M

    * Structural proteins: Collagen, keratin

    4. Nucleic Acids:

    * DNA: Deoxyribonucleic acid

    * RNA: Ribonucleic acid

    * ATP: Adenosine triphosphate

    5. Vitamins:

    * Water-soluble vitamins: Vitamin C, B vitamins

    * Fat-soluble vitamins: Vitamin A, D, E, K

    6. Minerals:

    * Macrominerals: Calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, sodium, potassium, chloride

    * Microminerals: Iron, zinc, copper, iodine, selenium

    7. Other:

    * Water: The most abundant molecule in living organisms.

    * Gases: Oxygen, carbon dioxide, nitrogen.

    * Pigments: Chlorophyll, melanin.

    Examples of biochemicals and their functions:

    * Glucose: Provides energy for cellular processes.

    * Insulin: Regulates blood sugar levels.

    * Collagen: Provides structural support to tissues.

    * DNA: Stores genetic information.

    * ATP: The energy currency of the cell.

    * Chlorophyll: Captures light energy for photosynthesis.

    These are just a few examples, and the list of biochemicals is vast and constantly expanding as scientists learn more about the complex world of living organisms.

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