- Vitamins are essential organic compounds that an organism needs in limited amounts. Carotene is a pigment and a precursor to Vitamin A. - Enzymes are biological catalysts, typically proteins. Pepsin is a digestive enzyme. - Hormones are signaling molecules produced by glands. Progesterone is a female sex hormone. - Proteins are complex macromolecules made of amino acids. Keratin is a structural protein found in hair, nails, etc.