Why is polymerization such a useful process for cells to make macromolecules?
You will find several reasons here:
http://www.biologie.uni-hamburg.de/b-online/e17/17.htm
Polymerization is a crucial process for cells to synthesize macromolecules because it allows the formation of larger, more complex molecules from smaller building blocks, known as monomers. There are several reasons why polymerization is so useful:
1. Efficient use of resources: Cells need to utilize limited resources efficiently. By synthesizing macromolecules through polymerization, they can produce large quantities of complex molecules using a relatively small number of monomers.
2. Structural stability: Macromolecules, such as proteins and nucleic acids (DNA and RNA), have specific functions and structures. The polymerization process allows the cells to create long chains of repeating units, which provide stability and structural integrity to these molecules.
3. Specificity and diversity: Polymerization enables cells to generate a wide variety of macromolecules with different structures and functions. Cells can use the same pool of monomers to create diverse molecules by altering the sequence, arrangement, and properties of monomers during the polymerization process.
4. Information storage and transfer: Polymerization is crucial for storing and transmitting genetic information. In the case of DNA, the polymerization of nucleotides forms a double helix structure, which serves as a template for carrying genetic instructions and passing them from one generation to the next.
To understand the process of polymerization more comprehensively, a closer look at the individual steps involved will provide a clearer insight:
1. Monomers: Cells start with a pool of smaller molecules or monomers that have reactive sites. These monomers can vary depending on the type of macromolecule being synthesized. For example, in proteins, the monomers are amino acids, while in DNA and RNA, the monomers are nucleotides.
2. Activation: The monomers are activated by adding energy or removing certain chemical groups to make them chemically reactive. This step ensures that the monomers are ready for polymerization.
3. Polymerization: The activated monomers are linked together through a chemical reaction called polymerization. This reaction may involve the formation of covalent bonds between the monomers, resulting in the creation of longer chains. Enzymes, known as polymerases, are often involved in facilitating the polymerization process in cells. They catalyze the assembly of monomers into polymer chains by facilitating the formation of new bonds.
4. Termination: Polymerization continues until a termination signal or condition is reached. This signal stops the addition of more monomers, and the polymer chain is complete.
By understanding the specific steps involved in polymerization and how cells utilize this process, we can appreciate its importance in the synthesis of macromolecules and the functioning of cellular processes.