Description: The term ‘biomolecular’ refers to the molecules that are fundamental to life, including proteins, nucleic acids (such as DNA and RNA), and carbohydrates. These biomolecules are essential for the biological and biochemical processes that sustain life in all organisms. Proteins, for example, are responsible for a wide variety of functions, from catalyzing chemical reactions as enzymes to providing structural support in cells and tissues. Nucleic acids, on the other hand, store and transmit genetic information, being crucial for reproduction and inheritance. Carbohydrates, besides being an energy source, also play important roles in cell recognition and signaling. The interaction between these biomolecules is complex and highly regulated, allowing organisms to adapt and respond to their environment. Bioinformatics, an interdisciplinary field that combines biology, computer science, and mathematics, is used to analyze and model these biomolecular interactions, facilitating the understanding of biological processes at the molecular level. In summary, the study of biomolecules is fundamental to modern biology and has significant implications in areas such as medicine, biotechnology, and genetic research.
History: The study of biomolecules began to take shape in the 19th century with the discovery of the structure of DNA by James Watson and Francis Crick in 1953, although research on proteins and carbohydrates dates back much earlier. Throughout the 20th century, the development of techniques such as X-ray crystallography and mass spectrometry allowed scientists to unravel the structure and function of these molecules. Bioinformatics emerged as a field in the 1970s, driven by the need to analyze large volumes of biological data, especially with the advancement of DNA sequencing.
Uses: Biomolecules have applications in various fields, including medicine, where they are used in drug development and gene therapies. In biotechnology, they are employed for the production of enzymes and hormones. Bioinformatics enables the analysis of genomic data, facilitating the identification of biomarkers for diseases and the design of personalized treatments.
Examples: A practical example of the use of biomolecules is gene therapy, which uses DNA vectors to introduce therapeutic genes into patient cells with genetic diseases. Another example is the use of recombinant proteins in the production of insulin to treat diabetes.
