The correct spelling of the word "glucase" is actually "glucosE". It is an important sugar found in our bodies and serves as an energy source for every cell. The IPA phonetic transcription for this word is ɡluːkəʊs, with the stress on the second syllable. The "c" at the end of the word is pronounced as a soft "s" sound, indicated by the IPA symbol /s/. Remembering the correct spelling and pronunciation of "glucose" is important for understanding basic human physiology and biology.
Glucase is an enzyme that plays a crucial role in carbohydrate metabolism. It is commonly referred to as glucose oxidase or β-D-glucose:oxygen 1-oxidoreductase. Glucase catalyzes the oxidation of glucose molecules, breaking them down into their constituent components. This enzyme specifically acts on D-glucose, which is a vital sugar molecule used by organisms for energy production.
The reaction facilitated by glucase involves the transfer of electrons from glucose to molecular oxygen, resulting in the production of gluconic acid and hydrogen peroxide. This oxidation process enables the release of energy stored within glucose, making it available for various metabolic functions. Additionally, hydrogen peroxide generated during this reaction serves as an anti-microbial agent in certain biological systems.
Glucase is naturally produced by certain microorganisms and fungi, and its applications extend beyond metabolism. It is widely utilized in biotechnology and various industries. For example, it is employed in the food and beverage industry for glucose determination and the production of certain food products. In the medical field, it is used for diagnostic purposes, such as blood glucose level measurement in glucose monitoring devices.
In summary, glucase is an enzyme that facilitates the oxidation of glucose, allowing for the release of energy and the production of gluconic acid and hydrogen peroxide. Its significance extends to various fields, including metabolism, biotechnology, food production, and medical diagnostics.
A ferment converting starch into glucose.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.