D form

Definition

D-form refers to the configuration of an organic molecule, specifically indicating that the molecule has a right-handed (dextrorotatory) orientation. This is commonly used in reference to amino acids and sugars in microbiology.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. D-form amino acids are less common in nature compared to L-form amino acids.
2. In bacterial cell walls, D-form amino acids such as D-alanine help provide structural integrity.
3. Sugars like glucose can exist in D-forms, which are biologically active and metabolized by organisms.
4. The D- and L- forms of molecules are enantiomers, meaning they are mirror images of each other.
5. Enzymes specific to the D-form or L-form can catalyze reactions involving these molecules, showing their biological significance.

Review Questions

Related terms

L-form:

Refers to the left-handed (levorotatory) orientation of an organic molecule.

Enantiomer: One of two stereoisomers that are mirror images of each other but cannot be superimposed.

Chirality:

A property where a molecule has a non-superimposable mirror image, often leading to D- and L-forms.