Egg Macromolecules Lab

   In this lab we asked the question, can macromolecules can be identified in an egg cell. We found that in the egg membrane, protein was abundant. During the test, it scored a 10 out of 10 for the presence of proteins, turning the sample a dark purple. Because the cell membrane uses protein channels to let in/out molecules, then the egg membrane will also have proteins in it. We found that in the egg whites, lipids, monosaccharides, and proteins were abundant. During all three tests, the egg white sample scored a 6/10 for the presence of lipids, monosaccharides, and proteins. Lipids are used to store energy; monosaccharides are simple sugars, which release energy; and proteins( enzymes) used to stop germs. All these macromolecules are all key for letting an embryo grow, for it needs energy, storage of energy, and needs enzymes( a sort of immune system). Last but not least, we found that proteins and polysaccharides were present in the egg yolk. The yolk scored a 8/10 in the protein test and a 7/10 in the polysaccharide test. Proteins are present because an embryo needs to have enzymes, and proteins are also used to make muscle. Polysaccharides are also present because they are complex sugars that provide stored energy needed for the embryo to start its transformation form embryo to baby chick.

 

   Our data contradicts the expected results because our group predicted that the egg yolk would test high for lipids, for the membrane of the egg yolk is mostly made of lipids. This may have happened because the egg yolk's consistency. Because of the egg's consistency, the Sudan III and NaOH+CoSO4 did not mix with the egg  well. Another error that happened was the instructions did not specify the quantity of egg membrane needed in each test tube. Due to these errors, in future experiments I would recommend to specify how to apply the agent, to find lipids, onto egg yolks, or to dilute the egg yolk in water to make it more liquid. I would also recommend to specify the quantity of egg membrane in milligrams, so that there is an exact amount in each test. 

   This lab was done to demonstrate what type of macromolecule was in each part of a cell with the metaphor of an egg. From this lab, I learned that some marcomolecules are necessary for the function of the each part of a cell, which helps me understand what each part of a cell does based on the macromolecules it needs for its function. Based on my experience from this lab, I could apply my new found knowledge towards better understanding in depth the function and structure of each part of a cell.