|
| Polymer | Incidence | Physiological Functions |
|
| (A) Protein |
|
| Silk | Synthesized by anthropods | Protective cocoon |
| Keratin | Hair | Thermal insulation |
| Collagen | Connective tissues (tendon, skin) | Mechanical support |
| Gelatin | Partly amorphous collagen | Industrial product |
| Fibrinogen | Blood | Blood clotting |
| Elastin | Neck ligament | Mechanical support |
| Actin | Muscles | Contraction motility |
| Myosin | Muscles | Contraction motility |
|
| (B) Polysaccharides |
|
| Cellulose | Plants | Mechanical support |
| Amylose | Plants | Energy reservoir |
| Dextran | Synthesized by bacteria | Matrix for growth of organism |
| Chitin | Insects and Crustaceans | Provides shape and form |
| Glycosaminoglycans | Connective tissues | Contribution to mechanical support |
|
| (C) Polynucleotides |
|
| Deoxyribonucleic acids (DNA) | Cell nucleus | Direct protein biosynthesis |
| Ribonuclei acids (DNA) | Cell nucleus | Direct protein biosynthesis |
|