starch catabolic process

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

The chemical reactions and pathways resulting in the breakdown of starch, the most important reserve polysaccharide in plants. [GOC:ai]

Starch catabolism is a complex biological process that breaks down starch, a complex carbohydrate, into simpler sugars. This process occurs in various organisms, including plants, animals, and microorganisms. The breakdown of starch begins with the hydrolysis of the α-1,4 glycosidic linkages between the glucose units in the starch molecule. This process is catalyzed by enzymes called amylases. There are two main types of amylases: α-amylase and β-amylase. α-Amylase randomly cleaves α-1,4 glycosidic linkages within the starch molecule, generating shorter polysaccharides and maltose. β-Amylase, on the other hand, hydrolyzes α-1,4 glycosidic linkages from the non-reducing end of the starch molecule, releasing maltose units. The resulting maltose is further broken down into glucose by the enzyme maltase. In addition to amylases and maltase, other enzymes involved in starch catabolism include: debranching enzymes, which break down the α-1,6 glycosidic linkages in branched starch molecules; and glucoamylase, which hydrolyzes both α-1,4 and α-1,6 glycosidic linkages. The glucose produced from starch catabolism can be used for energy production through cellular respiration, or it can be stored as glycogen in animals or as starch in plants. In plants, starch catabolism is an important process for providing energy during germination and growth. In animals, starch catabolism is essential for providing energy for various physiological processes. Microorganisms also utilize starch catabolism for energy production, playing a crucial role in the decomposition of organic matter in the environment.'
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Proteins (1)

Compounds (42)