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Polymers02:34

Polymers

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The word polymer is derived from the Greek words “poly” which means “many” and “mer” which means “parts”. Polymers are long chains of molecules composed of repeating units of smaller molecules, known as monomers. They either occur naturally, such as DNA and proteins, or can be constructed synthetically, like plastics. They have varied structural characteristics, such as linear chains, branched chains, or complex networks, that contribute to the...
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Chemistry of Carbohydrates03:25

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Carbohydrates are an essential part of the diet in humans and animals. Grains, fruits, and vegetables are natural sources of carbohydrates that provide energy to the body, particularly through glucose, a simple sugar that is a component of starch and an ingredient in many staple foods. The stoichiometric formula (CH2O)n, where n is the number of carbons in the molecule represents carbohydrates. In other words, the ratio of carbon to hydrogen to oxygen is 1:2:1 in carbohydrate molecules. This...
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Biosynthesis of Polysaccharides01:26

Biosynthesis of Polysaccharides

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Polysaccharides such as glycogen and starch are synthesized from nucleoside diphosphate sugars, primarily uridine diphosphate glucose (UDPG) and adenosine diphosphate glucose (ADPG). These activated glucose donors act as key intermediates in carbohydrate metabolism and biosynthesis. UDPG primarily involves glycogen synthesis in animals and many bacteria, while ADPG plays a fundamental role in starch synthesis in plants and certain bacteria.UDPG is formed when glucose-1-phosphate reacts with...
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Membrane Carbohydrates01:30

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The plasma membrane is a dynamic barrier composed of lipids, proteins, and carbohydrates. It is the epicenter of many cellular processes required for cell growth and survival. Carbohydrates have unique structural and chemical properties that help the plasma membrane to carry out its functions effectively.
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Glycocalyx and its Functions01:14

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The glycocalyx is a carbohydrate-rich, fuzzy-appearing layer on the outer surface of the cell membrane. It is highly hydrophilic, because of this it attracts large amounts of water to the cell's surface. This aids the cell's interaction with the watery environment and also helps it to obtain substances dissolved in the water. It is also important for cell identification, self/non-self determination, and embryonic development and is used in cell-to-cell attachments to form tissues.
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Carbohydrate Metabolism01:36

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Carbohydrates are polymers composed of molecules containing atoms of carbon, hydrogen and oxygen. One gram of carbohydrate can provide four kilo-calories of energy, which makes it the most efficient instant energy source.
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Bioactive Carbohydrate Polymers-Between Myth and Reality.

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This review critically examines bioactive polysaccharides, exploring their diverse biological functions beyond energy storage. It assesses reported activities and market viability, focusing on modifications to enhance their potential as therapeutic agents.

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Area of Science:

  • Biochemistry
  • Glycobiology
  • Carbohydrate Chemistry

Background:

  • Polysaccharides are complex carbohydrates traditionally viewed as energy stores or structural components.
  • Recent advances in glycosciences are revealing diverse biological roles for polysaccharides.
  • The field of bioactive polysaccharides has seen significant growth, particularly for medical applications.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To critically review the literature on bioactive polysaccharides.
  • To evaluate the reported biological activities and market potential of these compounds.
  • To explore modifications that can optimize polysaccharide bioactivity.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of scientific publications on bioactive polysaccharides.
  • Critical analysis of reported biological activities and their validation.
  • Assessment of market trends and applications for bioactive polysaccharides.
  • Examination of chemical, biochemical, enzymatic, and physical modification strategies.

Main Results:

  • The literature on bioactive polysaccharides is extensive but often highly optimistic.
  • A critical evaluation is needed to distinguish scientifically supported activities from market hype.
  • Various modification techniques show promise for enhancing polysaccharide efficacy.

Conclusions:

  • Bioactive polysaccharides possess significant potential, but rigorous validation is crucial.
  • Understanding structure-activity relationships is key to optimizing their use.
  • Further research into modification strategies can unlock new therapeutic applications.