Glycosidic bond

Definition

A glycosidic bond is a type of covalent bond that connects carbohydrate (sugar) molecules to another group, which could be another carbohydrate or a different molecule. This bond is essential in forming various polysaccharides and oligosaccharides.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Glycosidic bonds are formed through a dehydration reaction where a water molecule is released.
2. They can link monosaccharides into disaccharides, such as the bond between glucose and fructose to form sucrose.
3. The position of the glycosidic bond (e.g., alpha or beta) determines the properties and digestibility of the carbohydrate.
4. Enzymes like glycosidases break down glycosidic bonds during digestion.
5. Glycosidic bonds play a crucial role in the structure and function of glycogen, starch, and cellulose.

Review Questions

• What type of reaction leads to the formation of a glycosidic bond?
• How does the position of a glycosidic bond affect carbohydrate properties?
• Which enzymes are responsible for breaking glycosidic bonds?

Related terms

Monosaccharide: A simple sugar molecule that serves as a building block for more complex carbohydrates.

Polysaccharide: A complex carbohydrate composed of long chains of monosaccharide units bound together by glycosidic bonds.

Dehydration Reaction: A chemical reaction in which two molecules combine by removing water.