Polysaccharides in Human Biology
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Questions and Answers

What is the primary sugar acid in association with heparin?

  • Galacturonic acid
  • Glucuronic acid (correct)
  • Rhamnose
  • Mannuronic acid

    • Which of the following compounds is NOT a polysaccharide?

  • Sialic acid (correct)
  • Chondroitin
  • Heparin
  • Hyaluronic acid

    • What is attached to the core protein in cartilage to form its structure?

  • Nucleic acids
  • Amino acid sequences
  • Lipid molecules
  • Linear carbohydrate chains (correct)

    • Which of the following best describes the attachment of carbohydrate chains in cartilage?

    <p>Covalent bonds</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of biological macromolecule primarily forms the backbone of cartilage?

    <p>Proteins</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of polysaccharide is primarily used for storage in plants?

    <p>Starch</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which polysaccharide serves a structural function in plant cells?

    <p>Cellulose</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Glycogen is primarily found in which type of organism?

    <p>Animals</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements is true about cellulose?

    <p>It provides structural support in plant cell walls.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What classification does starch fall under?

    <p>Storage polysaccharide</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the source of agar?

    <p>Marine red algae</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following best describes agar?

    <p>A polysaccharide</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In terms of chemical composition, agar is primarily what type of molecule?

    <p>Polysaccharide</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which characteristic is NOT associated with agar?

    <p>Soluble in cold water</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What characteristic describes the structure of amylopectin?

    <p>A highly branched layer with branch points every 30 linkages</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How often do branch points occur in amylopectin's structure?

    <p>Every 30 linkages</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement best describes the branching of amylopectin?

    <p>Branches occur at consistent intervals of every 30 linkages</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of polysaccharide is amylopectin classified as?

    <p>A branched storage polysaccharide</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What characteristic is true regarding the formation of cellulose in plants?

    <p>Formed of β-glucose units</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement accurately describes cellulose's role in plants?

    <p>It provides structural support in cell walls.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement is true regarding the enzymatic process related to cellulose?

    <p>Cellulose hydrolysis is not significant in dietary processes.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In what way is cellulose different from starch in terms of structure and function?

    <p>Cellulose comprises β-glucose units while starch comprises α-glucose units.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What can be concluded about the importance of cellulose?

    <p>It is central to the structural framework of plant life.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What distinguishes homo-polysaccharides from hetero-polysaccharides in terms of monosaccharide composition?

    <p>Homo-polysaccharides contain only one type of monosaccharide, while hetero-polysaccharides contain more than one type.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Explain how the classification of polysaccharides as homo or hetero relates to their functional roles in organisms.

    <p>Homo-polysaccharides typically serve storage or structural roles due to their uniform composition, whereas hetero-polysaccharides have diverse functions due to their varied monosaccharide types.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What implications does the structural composition of homo-polysaccharides have on their digestibility?

    <p>The uniform nature of homo-polysaccharides can make them more easily digestible compared to hetero-polysaccharides, which may have complex structures.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In the classification of polysaccharides, how does the presence of multiple monosaccharides influence the properties of hetero-polysaccharides?

    <p>The diversity in monosaccharides allows hetero-polysaccharides to exhibit unique properties, such as varying solubility, viscosity, and biological functions.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How might the structural characteristics of homo-polysaccharides impact their storage capacities in biological systems?

    <p>The simplicity of homo-polysaccharides can enhance their efficiency in storage, allowing for quick mobilization of energy when needed.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary role of glucose during fasting according to the content?

    <p>To maintain blood glucose levels.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does the breakdown of glucose contribute to bodily function during fasting?

    <p>It provides necessary energy to sustain vital functions.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What physiological process occurs in the body to manage blood glucose levels when fasting?

    <p>Glycogenolysis, where glycogen is broken down into glucose.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the significance of maintaining blood glucose levels during fasting?

    <p>It is essential for preventing hypoglycemia and ensuring proper brain function.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What might happen if blood glucose levels drop too low during fasting?

    <p>It can lead to symptoms of hypoglycemia, such as dizziness and confusion.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role do glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) play in connective tissue?

    <p>GAGs contribute to the structure and function of connective tissue by providing hydration and elasticity, as well as forming a significant part of the extracellular matrix.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How are proteoglycans formed and what is their significance in connective tissue?

    <p>Proteoglycans are formed by the covalent attachment of GAGs to core proteins, which is significant for forming a resilient extracellular matrix that supports cell adhesion and tissue structure.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Describe the structural differences between cartilage and bone.

    <p>Cartilage is more flexible and has a gel-like matrix enriched with water and GAGs, while bone is rigid and consists of a mineralized matrix primarily made up of collagen and hydroxyapatite.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the impact of age-related changes in connective tissue on mobility?

    <p>Age-related changes, such as decreased GAG content and hydration in connective tissue, lead to stiffer joints and reduced mobility, causing discomfort and pain.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why are glycosaminoglycans considered important for joint health?

    <p>GAGs play a vital role in joint health by retaining water and providing lubrication, which helps reduce friction between joint surfaces during movement.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the glomerular filtration rate and why is it significant?

    <p>The glomerular filtration rate (GFR) measures how well the kidneys filter blood, indicating kidney function and health.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do bacteria in the gut of ruminants contribute to their digestion?

    <p>Bacteria in the gut of ruminants help break down complex carbohydrates and cellulose through fermentation, facilitating nutrient absorption.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What factors can influence the glomerular filtration rate?

    <p>Factors such as blood pressure, hydration levels, and the presence of certain medical conditions can influence the GFR.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role do gut bacteria play in the metabolic processes of ruminants?

    <p>Gut bacteria play a crucial role by fermenting dietary fibers and synthesizing essential vitamins and fatty acids.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is an accurate measurement of the glomerular filtration rate important in clinical settings?

    <p>An accurate GFR measurement is important to assess kidney health and guide treatment decisions for various renal conditions.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does the presence of glycoproteins on red blood cells determine a person's blood group?

    <p>The blood group is determined by the specific antigens present on the surface of red blood cells, which are types of glycoproteins.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role do blood group antigens play in transfusions?

    <p>Blood group antigens can trigger immune responses if incompatible blood is transfused.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Describe the implication of blood group antigens in organ transplantation.

    <p>Blood group antigens must be compatible to prevent rejection of transplanted organs.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In the context of blood grouping, what is the significance of glycoproteins?

    <p>Glycoproteins are significant as they form the specific antigens that determine the ABO blood types.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the biochemical basis for the differences in human blood groups?

    <p>The biochemical basis is the variations in glycoproteins on red blood cells that express different antigens.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the defining characteristic of homo-polysaccharides in terms of monosaccharide composition?

    <p>Homo-polysaccharides contain only one type of monosaccharide.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do hetero-polysaccharides differ from homo-polysaccharides?

    <p>Hetero-polysaccharides contain more than one type of monosaccharide.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In the context of polysaccharides, what are homo-glycans and hetero-glycans?

    <p>Homo-glycans refer to homo-polysaccharides, while hetero-glycans refer to hetero-polysaccharides.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role do the types of monosaccharides play in determining the characteristics of polysaccharides?

    <p>The type of monosaccharides influences the structural and functional properties of the polysaccharides.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How would you categorize a polysaccharide composed of glucose and fructose?

    <p>It would be categorized as a hetero-polysaccharide.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What unique structural feature distinguishes glycosaminoglycans from other carbohydrates?

    <p>Glycosaminoglycans have a repeating disaccharide unit structure, which is often sulfated.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Describe the primary function of dextran in biological systems.

    <p>Dextran primarily functions as an energy-storage polysaccharide in certain bacteria and yeast.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In what way does inulin differ from starch and glycogen in terms of energy storage?

    <p>Inulin serves as a storage polysaccharide primarily in plants, but it is indigestible by humans, unlike starch and glycogen.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do proteoglycans contribute to the mechanical properties of connective tissue?

    <p>Proteoglycans trap water in the extracellular matrix, providing hydration and resilience to connective tissues.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role does cellulose play in the structural integrity of plant cells?

    <p>Cellulose provides rigidity and strength to plant cell walls, allowing plants to maintain their shape.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary function of hyaluronic acid within the extracellular matrix?

    <p>It serves as a lubricant and acts as an anticoagulant.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does the presence of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) affect the properties of connective tissue?

    <p>GAGs contribute to the hydrophilic nature and structural integrity of connective tissue.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role does the anticoagulant property of hyaluronic acid play in the body?

    <p>It helps prevent blood clotting, maintaining smooth blood flow.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In what way does hyaluronic acid function in relation to lubrication?

    <p>It reduces friction between cells and tissues, facilitating smooth movement.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is the presence of abundant hyaluronic acid important for connective tissues?

    <p>It enhances tissue hydration and resilience, supporting overall mechanical function.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main structural component of plant cell walls and what units is it formed of?

    <p>Cellulose, formed of β-glucose units.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How is cellulose hydrolyzed and what dietary importance does it hold?

    <p>Cellulose is hydrolyzed by inulinase and has no dietary importance in humans.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is cellulose considered the most abundant natural polymer found in the world?

    <p>Because it is present in the cell walls of nearly all plants.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Discuss the significance of cellulose in relation to plant structural integrity.

    <p>Cellulose provides structural support to plants, enabling them to maintain shape and resist external pressure.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In what way does cellulose contribute to the ecological system?

    <p>Cellulose serves as a source of energy for certain microorganisms and supports the food chain.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does the absence of inulinase in humans influence carbohydrate digestion, particularly for diabetic patients?

    <p>The absence of inulinase in humans prevents the hydrolysis of certain carbohydrates, making complex carbohydrates a suitable dietary option for diabetic patients to manage their blood sugar levels.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the significance of resistance to hydrolysis by acid and digestive tract amylase for human dietary choices?

    <p>The resistance to hydrolysis allows certain carbohydrates to remain intact during digestion, thereby providing a controlled release of glucose, which is beneficial for blood sugar management.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In what way might the dietary management of diabetic patients benefit from understanding the functionality of inulin?

    <p>Understanding inulin's functionality can guide diabetic patients in selecting foods that have a low glycemic index, thus preventing spikes in blood sugar levels.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role could inulin play in the diets of individuals with digestive disorders?

    <p>Inulin can act as a prebiotic, promoting beneficial gut bacteria, which may aid digestion and improve overall gut health for those with digestive disorders.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is a diet emphasizing resistant carbohydrates beneficial for patients with diabetes?

    <p>A diet rich in resistant carbohydrates slows down glucose absorption, leading to improved glycemic control and reduced insulin requirements.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Agar is derived from ______.

    <p>algae</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Inulin is commonly found in various ______.

    <p>plants</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Dextran is a polysaccharide that consists of ______ molecules.

    <p>glucose</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Dextrin is a form of carbohydrate that is derived from ______.

    <p>starch</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Both amylopectin and glycogen are types of ______.

    <p>polysaccharides</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Starch consists of two layers: amylose and ______.

    <p>amylopectin</p> Signup and view all the answers

    ______ is an animal starch that consists of α-glucose units.

    <p>Glycogen</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Amylose is the inner linear non-branching ______ of starch.

    <p>layer</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Both starch and glycogen consist of α-D glucose units, also known as ______.

    <p>glucosan</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Glycogen is characterized by its highly ______ structure.

    <p>branched</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The carbohydrate part consists of ______ chains.

    <p>oligosaccharide</p> Signup and view all the answers

    These chains are attached to protein via OH of ______ and threonine residues.

    <p>serine</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Glycoproteins are formed by the attachment of carbohydrates to ______.

    <p>proteins</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The amide N of ______ is involved in N-glycosidic bond formation.

    <p>asparagine</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Glycoproteins could be found as ______.

    <p>varieties</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The most common storage ______ in plants is a polysaccharide.

    <p>polysaccharide</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Major form of storage ______ in animals and the human body.

    <p>polysaccharides</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The storage polysaccharide in plants is primarily ______.

    <p>starch</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In addition to starch, another significant polysaccharide for storage in animals is ______.

    <p>glycogen</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Plants primarily use ______ as a method for storing energy.

    <p>starch</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Organisms secrete ______ (β- glucosidase) which can hydrolyze cellulose.

    <p>cellulase</p> Signup and view all the answers

    ______ consists of α-D glucose units and is commonly known as animal starch.

    <p>Glycogen</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Starch is classified as a type of ______.

    <p>polysaccharide</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The structure of amylopectin includes ______ points that create branching.

    <p>branch</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Cellulose serves a ______ function in plant cells, providing structural support.

    <p>structural</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Study Notes

    Polysaccharides (Glycans)

    • Polysaccharides are a type of carbohydrate that plays an important role in different parts of the body.
    • Polysaccharides can be classified as either storage or structural.
    • Storage polysaccharides include starch and glycogen, which are used to store energy.
    • Structural polysaccharides include cellulose, which provides structural support.
    • Chondroitin, keratan, dermatan, heparin, heparan, and hyaluronic acid are examples of polysaccharides with unique functions.
    • Chondroitin is found in heart valves, cells, eye, and skin.
    • Keratan is found in aorta.
    • Dermatan is found in connective tissue.
    • Heparan is a component of cell membranes.
    • Heparin is a protective and supportive polysaccharide used in medicine.
    • Hyaluronic acid is found in cartilage, acting as a shock absorber.
    • All these polysaccharides have a core protein that is covalently attached to linear carbohydrate chains.
    • Dermatan sulfate is not a good lubricant leading to age-related pains.
    • An amino group is usually acetylated, sometimes sulphated.

    Polysaccharides

    • Agar is a polysaccharide isolated from marine red algae.
    • All glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) except hyaluronic acid and heparin are found covalently attached to protein to form proteoglycans.
    • Proteoglycans are major components of cartilage, tendons, skin, bone, and other connective tissues.
    • The branch points in amylopectin occur once every 30 linkages.
    • Amylopectin is the outer, highly branched layer of starch.
    • Amylopectin is hydrolyzed by inulinase in plants.
    • Amylopectin is the most abundant natural polymer found in the world.
    • Amylopectin is found in the cell walls of nearly all plants.
    • Cellulose is formed of β-glucose units.
    • Cellulose has no dietary importance in humans.

    Polysaccharides (Glycans)

    • Polysaccharides are classified into homopolysaccharides and heteropolysaccharides.
    • Homopolysaccharides consist of only one type of monosaccharide.
    • Homopolysaccharides are also called homoglycans.
    • Heteropolysaccharides consist of more than one type of monosaccharide.
    • Heteropolysaccharides are also called heteroglycans.
    • Homopolysaccharides serve as intracellular energy stores.
    • Homopolysaccharides are also found in structural components like joints and bones.
    • Heteropolysaccharides are predominantly found as extracellular glycosaminoglycans (GAGs).
    • When the body is fasting, homopolysaccharides can be broken down to produce glucose to maintain blood glucose levels.
    • Homopolysaccharides can also be used to determine the glomerular filtration rate.
    • Membrane-bound glycoproteins, such as blood group antigens, are linked to the presence of homopolysaccharides.
    • The ABO blood grouping system is based on the antigenic differences determined by the type of glycoprotein present on the surface of red blood cells.

    Polysaccharides

    • Polysaccharides are complex carbohydrates composed of multiple monosaccharide units linked together.
    • They are classified into homopolysaccharides and heteropolysaccharides based on the type of monosaccharide units present.
    • Homopolysaccharides (homoglycans) contain only one type of monosaccharide, while heteropolysaccharides (heteroglycans) contain more than one type of monosaccharide.

    Homopolysaccharides

    • Examples of homopolysaccharides include starch, glycogen, dextran, dextrin, inulin, and cellulose.
    • Starch and glycogen are storage polysaccharides found in plants and animals, respectively.
    • Dextran and dextrin are branched polysaccharides used in various industrial processes.
    • Inulin is a fructan found in plants, primarily in roots and tubers.
    • Cellulose is the most abundant natural polymer found in the cell walls of nearly all plants.

    Heteropolysaccharides

    • Examples of heteropolysaccharides include glycosaminoglycans, agar, and proteoglycans.
    • Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) are a family of linear polysaccharides that play important roles in various biological processes, including structural support, lubrication, and anticoagulation.
    • Agar is a polysaccharide extracted from red algae used as a gelling agent in various industries.
    • Proteoglycans are large macromolecules composed of a core protein covalently linked to one or more GAG chains.

    Key Facts

    • Cellulose is highly resistant to hydrolysis by acid and digestive tract amylase due to its β-glucose units.
    • Humans lack the enzyme inulinase, making inulin indigestible.
    • Hyaluronic acid is a major component of glycosaminoglycans and acts as a lubricant and anticoagulant.
    • The structure of polysaccharides is crucial for their function and biological activity.

    Glycoproteins

    • Consist of oligosaccharide chains attached to proteins
    • Chains are attached to proteins via:
      • Hydroxyl groups of serine and threonine residues (O-glycosidic bond)
      • Amide nitrogen of asparagine (N-glycosidic bond)

    Polysaccharides (Glycans)

    • Types include:
      • Dextran
      • Dextrin
      • Agar
      • Inulin
      • Starch
      • Glycogen (animal starch)

    Starch

    • Composed of α-D glucose units (glucosan)
    • Amylose: inner linear non-branching layer of starch, most common storage polysaccharide in plants
    • Amylopectin: highly branched outer layer of starch

    Glycogen (Animal Starch)

    • Composed of α-glucose units (glucosan)
    • Highly branched structure
    • Major form of storage polysaccharides in animals and the human body
    • Some animals secrete cellulase (β-glucosidase) which can hydrolyze cellulose

    Dextrin

    • α-glucose units (glucosan)

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    Description

    This quiz explores the various types of polysaccharides, their functions, and their significance in the human body. It covers storage polysaccharides like starch and glycogen, as well as structural ones such as cellulose. Additionally, it highlights unique polysaccharides like chondroitin and hyaluronic acid, detailing their specific roles in different tissues.

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