Alpha-glucosidase
Alpha-glucosidase
Alpha-glucosidase (pronunciation: al-fa gloo-ko-si-dase) is an enzyme that hydrolyzes terminal, non-reducing 1-4 linked alpha-glucose residues to release a single alpha-glucose molecule.
Etymology
The term "Alpha-glucosidase" is derived from the Greek words "alpha" meaning first, "glucos" meaning sweet, and "idase" indicating it is an enzyme.
Function
Alpha-glucosidase is located in the brush border of the small intestine and plays a crucial role in the digestion of carbohydrates. It breaks down complex sugars into simpler sugars, which can then be absorbed by the body.
Related Terms
- Alpha-glucosidase inhibitor: A class of anti-diabetic drugs that slow down the action of alpha-glucosidase, thereby slowing the absorption of carbohydrates in the small intestine and reducing the rise in blood glucose levels after a meal.
- Glycogen storage disease type II: Also known as Pompe disease, it is a genetic disorder caused by the deficiency of alpha-glucosidase, leading to the accumulation of glycogen in certain organs and tissues, especially muscles, impairing their ability to function normally.
- Maltase: Another type of alpha-glucosidase that specifically breaks down maltose into two glucose molecules.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Alpha-glucosidase
- Wikipedia's article - Alpha-glucosidase
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