BFD105 - Biological Foundations

1. Glucose is a biochemically important monosaccharide. Name the functional groups present in a glucose molecule and the link to water solubility of this simple sugar. Briefly describe the primary function of glucose in human body.

2. Glycogen is a polysaccharide. Identify the function of glycogen in the body and name the major location(s) for glycogen storage. Which monosaccharide(s) is (are) the building block of glycogen?

3. There are some similarities and differences in the structure and function of starch and cellulose. Identify two major differences in the structure or function of these two polysaccharides. Why can human body use starch as a source of energy and cellulose is not considered as an energy source?

4. Maltose, Lactose and Sucrose are disaccharides. Identify the components of each of these disaccharides. Name where in the nature each of these three disaccharides can be found. 

5. Lactose is the principal carbohydrate in milk. Lactose intolerance is characterized by abdominal pain and distension, flatus, and diarrhoea induced by lactose in dairy products. Briefly discuss the link between the enzyme lactase and lactose intolerance.