Answer to Question #307551 in Biochemistry for kjj

Question

1. Explain the features of the molecule represented in the structural diagram below. You must identify and describe each of the following:
2. Type of macromolecule and how you know
3. Functional groups present

Answer 1

The molecule represented in the structural diagram below is Dodecanoic acid .

Its feature :- this C11 straight chain acid acts as a plant metabolite.

a) Type of macromolecule - this compound is a saturated long chain fatty acid with an aliphatic tail and carboxyl functional group.

b) Functional group present here is the carboxyl group(COOH-) which is named so because of the carbonyl group( CO) and hydroxyl group.

c)Transport of this molucule occurs through passive diffusion but in recent years it is believed that fatty acids cross the membrane via a protein mediated mechanism where it not only facilitate but also regulate cellular fatty acid uptake for instance through inducible rapid translocation from intracellular storage pools to the cell membrane .

Thus fatty acid transporters hold promise as a future target to rectify lipid fluxes in the body and regain metabolic homeostasis.