Polüsahhariidis

Polüsahhariidis, also known as polysaccharides, are complex carbohydrates composed of long chains of monosaccharide units linked together by glycosidic bonds. They are a diverse group of biomolecules found in plants, animals, and microorganisms, playing crucial roles in structure, energy storage, and cell recognition.

In plants, structural polysaccharides like cellulose and hemicellulose form the rigid cell walls, providing support and protection. Starch, another plant polysaccharide, serves as a primary energy reserve, storing glucose units that can be broken down when needed.

In animals, glycogen is the main storage form of glucose, primarily found in the liver and muscles, readily available for quick energy release. Chitin, a polysaccharide found in the exoskeletons of insects and crustaceans, as well as in fungal cell walls, provides structural integrity.

Polysaccharides are also involved in biological recognition processes. For example, glycoproteins and glycolipids on cell surfaces, which contain polysaccharide chains, are essential for cell-to-cell communication, immune responses, and the functioning of the nervous system.

The digestion of polysaccharides in humans involves enzymes like amylase, which break down complex chains into simpler sugars that can be absorbed and utilized by the body. The specific structure and linkage of monosaccharides within a polysaccharide determine its physical properties and biological functions.