Synthesis

Today, we examined synthesis reactions - the process by which the cell makes larger molecules.  This can be used to store food for later, as in the case of synthesizing a polysaccharide like starch or glucose; or, the cell can use synthesis to build functional or structural molecules - for example, synthesizing an enzyme or membrane protein from amino acids, or synthesizing a phospholipid from fatty acid tails, glycerol, and a phosphate.  With synthesis, the cell can build whatever it needs from the raw materials taken in from digestion.  Ian B. made a really good connection to digestion today, pointing out that we humans eat big polymers, break them down into monomers so they are small enough to cross the cell membrane into the cell, and then the cell uses synthesis to reconstruct the polymers inside it.  Pretty cool!

Homework
1) On looseleaf, write a response to the prompt we discussed in class: Explain the role of enzymes, activation energy, and ATP in the synthesis of a disaccharide from two monosaccharides [6].  

2) Your post-interim assignment is due Monday.

Best,
Mr. Hill