Contextualization

Biochemistry is a science that investigates the chemical components involved in life, how they are organized, interact, and modify. It is a field of study essential for understanding how organisms function at a molecular level. It is essential for various areas of knowledge, such as medicine, pharmacy, nutrition, agronomy, among others.

In this project, we will focus on biological macromolecules, which are large and complex molecules, essential for biological functions. The four main classes of biological macromolecules are carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids. Each of these groups has a specific function in the body and a unique chemical structure.

Carbohydrates provide energy and structure. Lipids, besides being an important source of energy, are fundamental for the formation of the cell membrane. Proteins have a variety of roles, including tissue building and repair, coordination of bodily functions, and defense against diseases. Nucleic acids, DNA and RNA, are responsible for storing and transmitting genetic information.

Importance and Applications of Biochemistry

Biochemistry plays a vital role in our daily lives, whether in combating diseases, developing new drugs, producing food, or even exploring clean energy. Biochemical knowledge allows us to understand how the foods we consume are being used by our bodies, which elements are beneficial or harmful to our health, and how we can improve our well-being and prevent diseases.

This science also has enormous relevance in modern medicine. Understanding biochemistry allows doctors and scientists to decipher disease mechanisms at a molecular level, leading to the development of better treatments and medications. Similarly, biochemistry plays an important role in agriculture, assisting in the production of food more effectively and sustainably.

To delve deeper into the topic, we suggest the following sources:

• Basic Biochemistry - Anita Marzzoco and Bayardi Osório
• Fundamentals of Biochemistry - Donald Voet, Judith G. Voet, Charlotte W. Pratt
• Your Health - YouTube Channel
• Biochemistry - Khan Academy (in English with Portuguese subtitles)

Practical Activity

Activity Title: "Journey through the Macromolecules of the Human Body"

Objective

The main objective of this activity is for students to develop a deep understanding of biological macromolecules (carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids), their chemical structure, functions in the human body, and importance for life.

Project Description

Each group will be responsible for creating a detailed presentation on one of the four main macromolecules. The presentation should include the molecule's chemical structure, its functions in the human body, its importance for health, and an analysis of common foods where the macromolecule is present.

Necessary Materials

• Computer with internet access
• Biochemistry book (suggestions in the Bibliography section)
• Materials for creating slides (PowerPoint, Google Slides, etc)

Step by Step

1. Divide the class into groups of 3 to 5 students.
2. Assign each group one of the four macromolecules: carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, or nucleic acids.
3. Each group should research and collect information about the macromolecule, focusing on the chemical structure, functions in the human body, importance for health, and an analysis of common foods where the macromolecule is present.
4. The groups should create a presentation with the collected material. The presentations should be clear, detailed, and creative. Students can use visual resources, examples of foods, illustrations of biochemical processes, etc.
5. Each team must present their work to the class.

Project Delivery

After completing the practical part of the project, each group must write a report containing four sections: Introduction, Development, Conclusions, and Bibliography.

Introduction:

Students should contextualize the assigned macromolecule, explaining what it is, its relevance, and real-world applications.

Development:

Students should explain the chemical structure of the macromolecule and detail its functions in the human body. They should explain the research methodology used, present and discuss the results of their food analysis.

Conclusions:

Students should conclude the report by summarizing the main points discussed, explaining the learnings obtained, and drawing conclusions about the importance of the studied macromolecule.

Bibliography:

Students should indicate the sources used for research and project development. Sources may include books, web pages, videos, etc.