nucleotide-sugar metabolic process

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

The cellular chemical reactions and pathways involving nucleotide-sugars, any nucleotide-carbohydrate in which the distal phosphoric residue of a nucleoside 5'-diphosphate is in glycosidic linkage with a monosaccharide or monosaccharide derivative. [ISBN:0198506732]

Nucleotide-sugar metabolic process encompasses a vital series of biochemical reactions that synthesize and interconvert nucleotide sugars. These molecules serve as activated sugar donors in various cellular pathways, notably in the synthesis of complex carbohydrates such as glycosaminoglycans, glycoproteins, and polysaccharides. The process begins with the activation of sugar molecules through phosphorylation, generating sugar phosphates. These sugar phosphates then undergo a nucleotidylation step, where they are coupled to a nucleotide, typically a nucleoside diphosphate (NDP) like UDP or GDP. The resulting nucleotide sugar is then utilized as a substrate in various biosynthetic pathways. For instance, UDP-glucose is a precursor for glycogen synthesis, while UDP-galactose participates in lactose biosynthesis. The interconversion of nucleotide sugars is catalyzed by specific enzymes, ensuring the appropriate supply of activated sugars for various metabolic needs. Overall, nucleotide-sugar metabolic process is crucial for maintaining cellular homeostasis, facilitating the biosynthesis of essential macromolecules, and supporting diverse cellular functions.'
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Proteins (1)

Compounds (2)