GALACTOSE Meaning and
Definition
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Galactose is a monosaccharide - a type of sugar - that is commonly found in nature and is an important component of many biological molecules. Chemically, it is classified as an aldohexose, meaning that it has six carbons and an aldehyde (a functional group) at one end.
Galactose is naturally present in milk and other dairy products, as it is a constituent of lactose, the primary carbohydrate found in milk. When lactose is broken down by the enzyme lactase during digestion, it is split into its two component sugars: glucose and galactose.
Galactose plays a vital role in various biological processes within the body. It is an essential component of glycolipids, glycoproteins, and proteoglycans, which are all involved in cell adhesion, signaling, and cell membrane structure. Additionally, galactose is a necessary component for the synthesis of certain complex carbohydrates, such as polysaccharides like galactan and agarose.
In terms of metabolism, galactose is metabolized through a series of enzymatic reactions that ultimately convert it to glucose-6-phosphate, a key intermediate in glucose metabolism and energy production. However, individuals with a genetic disorder called galactosemia cannot properly metabolize galactose, leading to potentially severe health complications if they consume galactose-containing foods.
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A dextrorotatory monosaccharid (hexose) occurring as one of the products, with dextrose, of the hydrolysis of lactose.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for GALACTOSE
Etymology of GALACTOSE
The word "galactose" is derived from the Greek terms "gala" meaning "milk" and "ose" indicating a sugar. The name reflects the fact that galactose is a sugar found in milk and dairy products. It was first isolated from the lactose sugar in milk by French chemist Alfred Lépine in 1874.
Similar spelling words for GALACTOSE
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