Metab KH part 2

The lecture begins with an introduction to carbohydrate metabolism, reviewing the digestion and absorption processes. Carbohydrates, particularly complex carbohydrates like starch, are broken down into monosaccharides such as glucose, fructose, and galactose before entering the bloodstream for metabolism. The two main metabolic processes discussed are catabolism, which converts glucose into energy (ATP), and anabolism, which stores glucose as glycogen in the body.

The process of glycogenesis is explained, where glucose is converted into glycogen for storage, stimulated by insulin. Conversely, glycogenolysis is the breakdown of glycogen back into glucose when needed, also regulated by hormones like glucagon. Gluconeogenesis is introduced as the formation of glucose from non-carbohydrate sources like proteins and fats, occurring when glucose intake is low.

Monosaccharides such as fructose and galactose are also metabolized. Fructose is primarily metabolized in the liver and can be converted into glucose through various enzymatic processes. Galactose is similarly converted into glucose and plays a role in synthesizing lactose and other biomolecules. The lecture emphasizes the importance of these processes in maintaining glucose levels in the body.

The discussion shifts to carbohydrate metabolism disorders, including diabetes mellitus, lactose intolerance, galactosemia, and fructosuria. Diabetes mellitus is characterized by high blood glucose levels and various symptoms, with different types based on their etiology, including Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. Lactose intolerance results from insufficient lactase enzyme, while galactosemia is a more severe condition due to enzyme deficiencies affecting galactose metabolism.