BTEC Level 3 National Diploma in Applied Science Unit 10 Assignment A

Learning aim(s)

A: Understand the structure and function of biological molecules and their importance in maintaining biochemical processes

Vocational Scenario or Context

You are a trainee technician that has been working in a biochemistry lab for six months. Before moving onto the next phase of your technician training in another type of lab, your supervisor has asked you to assist the new trainee biochemistry technician who will be carrying out the same placement that you have just completed. You will need to demonstrate an understanding of biochemical processes and the effects of disrupting these, as well as include models of the relevant biological molecules that will enable you to show the structure and function of these in living organisms to the new trainee. 

Task

Produce a leaflet to explain the links between the structure, function and roles of the following biological molecules in living organisms:

• Water, structure and bonding and importance
• Carbohydrates, including simple diagrams to show the CHO ratio compared to other molecules and how simple sugars combine
• Proteins, including the four levels of structure(primary, secondary, tertiary and quaternary)and side group structure and function
• Nucleic acids (DNA and RNA), including diagrams to compare the structures and functions of these in the human body
• Lipids, including saturated fats, unsaturated fats, as well as the formation of diglycerides and triglycerides 

You could include photos of models and/or relevant referenced diagrams of the biological molecules. State which chemical elements the molecules are formed from. Explain how the addition of elements (such as nitrogen, phosphorus and sulphur) can alter the structure and properties of the biological molecules.

• Using correct scientific terminology, you must produce a report evaluating the effects caused by the disruption of biological processes for two of the following examples:
• PorphyriaoLactose intoleranceoDiabetes mellitus
• Cystic fibrosisoExposure to carcinogensoInterference in plant growth regulatorsYour evaluation must identify where the disruption of these biological molecules is intentional for human benefit.

Criteria covered by this task:

To achieve the criteria you must show that you are able to:

A.D1 Evaluate the effects of disruption of biochemical processes in living organisms.
A.M1 Explain the links between the structure and function of biological molecules and their role in living organisms.
A.P1 Explain the structure of biological molecules in living organisms.