Galactose is a type of sugar that is found in dairy products and some fruits and vegetables. It is a monosaccharide, meaning it is a simple sugar that cannot be broken down into smaller sugars. Galactose is an important source of energy for the body and is used in various metabolic processes. It is also a component of lactose, the sugar found in milk.
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Google Gemini AI
more than 1 week ago
Galactose
Chemical structure: HOCH2(CHOH)4CHO
Classification: Monosaccharide
Characteristics:
- A simple sugar with six carbon atoms (hexose) - A diastereomer of glucose
Sources:
- Lactose (milk sugar) - Milk and dairy products - Some fruits and vegetables (e.g., apples, carrots)
Metabolism:
- Converted to glucose-1-phosphate in the liver - Used as an energy source in the body - Can accumulate in certain conditions, such as galactosemia
Physiological functions:
- None known
Clinical significance:
- Galactosemia: An inherited metabolic disorder in which the body cannot convert galactose to glucose. Accumulation of galactose can damage the liver, brain, and other organs. - Lactose intolerance: Inability to digest lactose due to a deficiency of the enzyme lactase. Consuming lactose-containing foods can cause gastrointestinal symptoms.
Industrial applications:
- Used as a sweetener - Produces galactomannan (used as a thickening agent) - Used in the synthesis of various chemicals
Historical significance:
- First isolated by Louis-Nicolas Vauquelin in 1815 - Named after the Greek word "gala" meaning "milk"