Group of Organic Molecule

Subunit (Monomer)

Subgroups

Examples and Functions

Carbohydrates

Monosaccharide

Monosaccharides

Disaccharides

Polysaccharides

Glucose and Galactose:  store energy

Sucrose and Lactose:  store energy

Glycogen, Starch:  store energy

Cellulose, Chitin:  form tough fibers and covers

Lipids

Fatty Acid

(for some)

Neutral Lipids

Phospholipids

Steroids

Wax and Oil:  waterproof cover, store energy

Cell membrane component:  selective cover

Testosterone, Progesterone:  cell communication

Proteins

Amino Acid

Enzymes

Structural Units

Glycoproteins

Carriers

Antibodies

Contracting fibers

Lactase:  speeds breakdown of lactose

Keratin:  makes up bulk of hair

Cell surface receptors:  detect molecules outside

Hemoglobin:  specifically carries oxygen

Gamma globulin:  inactivates invaders

Actin and myosin:  make muscles move

Nucleic Acids

Nucleotide

ATP

RNA              (Ribonucleic Acid)

DNA(Deoxyribonucleic Acid)

Adenosine Triphosphate:  carries energy for 

immediate use by cells

mRNA for lactase:  carries genetic information         for making lactase (short term)

gene for lactase:  carries genetic information for making lactase (long term)