NEUTRAL MALTASE Meaning and
Definition
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Neutral maltase, also known as alpha-glucosidase or maltase-glucoamylase, is an enzyme that catalyzes the hydrolysis of maltose, a disaccharide composed of two glucose units. This enzyme belongs to the family of glycoside hydrolases and specifically acts on the alpha-1,4-glycosidic linkages in maltose and other related oligosaccharides.
Neutral maltase is called "neutral" because it works optimally at a neutral pH, typically around 6. It is found in various tissues and organs, including the small intestine, pancreas, and salivary glands. In the small intestine, neutral maltase is primarily secreted by the brush border cells of the mucosal lining, where it plays a crucial role in the final stage of carbohydrate digestion.
When carbohydrates reach the small intestine in the form of starch or glycogen, they are initially broken down into maltose by amylase enzymes. Neutral maltase then acts on the maltose molecules, cleaving the glycosidic bond and releasing two glucose molecules. These glucose molecules can be easily absorbed by the intestinal cells and subsequently enter the bloodstream for distribution and utilization by other organs.
The activity of neutral maltase is essential for proper carbohydrate absorption and energy production in the body. It facilitates the breakdown of complex carbohydrates into simpler forms that can be readily absorbed and utilized. Deficiencies in this enzyme can lead to impaired digestion of maltose, resulting in gastrointestinal discomfort and malabsorption issues.
Common Misspellings for NEUTRAL MALTASE
- beutral maltase
- meutral maltase
- jeutral maltase
- heutral maltase
- nwutral maltase
- nsutral maltase
- ndutral maltase
- nrutral maltase
- n4utral maltase
- n3utral maltase
- neytral maltase
- nehtral maltase
- nejtral maltase
- neitral maltase
- ne8tral maltase
- ne7tral maltase
- neurral maltase
- neufral maltase
- neugral maltase
- neuyral maltase
Etymology of NEUTRAL MALTASE
The etymology of the word "Neutral Maltase" can be understood by breaking it down into its components.
1. Neutral: The term "neutral" refers to a substance or solution that has a pH of 7, which is neither acidic nor alkaline. In relation to maltase, it signifies that the enzyme functions optimally in a pH-neutral environment.
2. Maltase: Maltase is an enzyme that aids in the digestion of carbohydrates, specifically maltose. It breaks down maltose into two glucose molecules. The term "maltase" is derived from the word "malt", which refers to germinated cereal grains that contain high amounts of starch.
When combined, "neutral maltase" indicates an enzyme called maltase that operates under neutral pH conditions.
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