trehalose catabolic process

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

The chemical reactions and pathways resulting in the breakdown of trehalose, a disaccharide that consists of two molecules of glucose and is isomeric with sucrose. [GOC:jl, ISBN:0028623819]

Trehalose catabolic process is the breakdown of trehalose, a disaccharide composed of two glucose molecules linked by an α,α-1,1-glycosidic bond. This process is essential for mobilizing glucose from trehalose reserves and is found in various organisms, including bacteria, fungi, insects, and plants.

The breakdown of trehalose typically occurs in two steps:

1. **Hydrolysis by trehalase:** Trehalase, a hydrolytic enzyme, cleaves the glycosidic bond between the two glucose molecules in trehalose. This produces two molecules of glucose.
2. **Utilization of glucose:** The released glucose molecules can be used for energy production through glycolysis or for biosynthesis.

In bacteria, trehalose catabolism is a key pathway for energy generation and survival during stress conditions, such as starvation or osmotic shock. In fungi, trehalose serves as a major storage carbohydrate, and its breakdown provides energy for growth and development. Insects rely on trehalose as their primary blood sugar, and its catabolism is essential for flight and other energy-demanding activities. In plants, trehalose plays a role in stress tolerance and seed germination.

The regulation of trehalose catabolism is complex and varies among different organisms. In bacteria, the expression of trehalase is often regulated by environmental factors, such as nutrient availability and stress levels. In fungi, the regulation of trehalose catabolism is linked to the regulation of glycogen metabolism. In insects, the breakdown of trehalose is controlled by hormones, such as insulin and glucagon, which regulate blood sugar levels.

Trehalose catabolic process is an essential metabolic pathway that plays a crucial role in energy production, stress tolerance, and growth and development in various organisms.'
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Proteins (1)

Compounds (1)