Functions of Carbohydrates

1. 1
Dr. Monima Nawal
2nd Year MBBS
Roll No.51
Functions of
Carbohydrates

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“Carbohydrates may be
defined as polyhydroxy
aldehyde or ketones or
compounds which on
hydrolysis produce
them”

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Function
Most important diatary source provide 4cal/g energy.
Precurser of organic compound eg fats, amino acids
Play important role in:
 Cell memb. Structure
Cellular funtion
Eg growth, adhesion fertilization.
Structural compounds of many organisms:
Plant fiber-cellulose
Exoskeleton of-insects
Cell Wall of- microorganisms
Carbohydrates also seeve as storage form
(glycogen)(meet immediate energy demands.

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Reduce form of Carbohydrates (Monosachartides)
D-Serbitol- (Glucose)
D-Dillcition- (Galactose)
D-Manitol-(Mannose)
D-Freetso-D-Mannitl+D-Sorbitol
D-Ribose-D-Ribitol
Mannitol- Reduce intracranial tension by forced diuresis.
Sorbitol & Dulcitl:
Accummulate in tissue in lrge amounts cause strong osmotic
effect leading to swelling of cells.
Certain pathlogical condition.
eg.-Cataract
-neuropacth
-pelicpheral newropathy
Polymers of monosaccharides:
Dextran: used as plasma velume expanders in transgusion nd
chromatozraphy (Polymer of Glucose)

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Insulin (Polymer of fructose):
Used to assess kidney function through measurement of
glomerular filtration rate.
Mucopolysaccharides:
Hyaluronic Acid:
Serves as lubricant.
Chondroitin Sulfate:
Maintains shape of tissues.
Heparin:
Acts as anti-coagulant.
Dermatan Sulfate:
Maintains the shapes of tissues.
Keratan Sulfate:
Keeps cornea transparent.