carbohydrate metabolic process

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

The chemical reactions and pathways involving carbohydrates, any of a group of organic compounds based of the general formula Cx(H2O)y. [GOC:mah, ISBN:0198506732]

Carbohydrate metabolism is a fundamental biological process that encompasses all reactions involved in the breakdown, synthesis, and interconversion of carbohydrates. These reactions are essential for energy production, biosynthesis, and cellular signaling.

The process begins with the digestion of dietary carbohydrates, such as starches and sugars, into simpler monosaccharides like glucose, fructose, and galactose. These monosaccharides are then absorbed into the bloodstream and transported to various cells throughout the body.

**Glycolysis:** The primary pathway for carbohydrate breakdown is glycolysis, which occurs in the cytoplasm of cells. This process converts glucose into pyruvate, generating ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the primary energy currency of cells.

**Krebs Cycle and Oxidative Phosphorylation:** Pyruvate can then enter the mitochondria, where it is further oxidized in the Krebs cycle (also known as the citric acid cycle). This cycle generates high-energy electron carriers (NADH and FADH2) that are used in oxidative phosphorylation, the final stage of aerobic respiration. Oxidative phosphorylation utilizes the energy from electron carriers to generate ATP, producing the majority of a cell's energy.

**Gluconeogenesis:** In addition to breakdown, carbohydrates can be synthesized from non-carbohydrate precursors, such as amino acids and glycerol, through a process called gluconeogenesis. This pathway is essential for maintaining blood glucose levels during fasting or starvation.

**Glycogen Metabolism:** Excess glucose can be stored as glycogen, a branched polymer of glucose, in the liver and muscles. Glycogen can be broken down into glucose when needed, providing a readily available energy source.

**Pentose Phosphate Pathway:** This alternative pathway for glucose metabolism generates NADPH, a reducing agent essential for various biosynthetic reactions, and ribose-5-phosphate, a precursor for nucleic acids.

**Regulation of Carbohydrate Metabolism:** The intricate network of enzymes and hormones regulates carbohydrate metabolism to meet the body's energy demands and maintain metabolic homeostasis. Insulin, glucagon, and other hormones play key roles in controlling glucose uptake, storage, and utilization.

**Disorders of Carbohydrate Metabolism:** Disturbances in carbohydrate metabolism can lead to various metabolic disorders, such as diabetes mellitus, glycogen storage diseases, and galactosemia. These disorders can affect energy production, tissue function, and overall health.'
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Proteins (33)

Compounds (398)