UDPgalaktóza

UDPgalaktóza, or uridine diphosphate galactose, is a crucial intermediate molecule in the metabolism of carbohydrates. It is a nucleotide sugar, meaning it consists of a sugar moiety (galactose) linked to a nucleoside diphosphate (uridine diphosphate). UDPgalaktóza plays a vital role in the synthesis of various complex carbohydrates, including lactose, the primary sugar found in milk. This synthesis is catalyzed by the enzyme lactose synthase.

In addition to lactose synthesis, UDPgalaktóza is also involved in the biosynthesis of other important glycoconjugates such as glycoproteins and glycolipids. These molecules are essential for numerous cellular functions, including cell signaling, cell adhesion, and immune responses. The interconversion between UDPglucose and UDPgalaktóza is a key metabolic pathway. This conversion is facilitated by the enzyme UDP-glucose 4-epimerase, also known as UDP-galactose 4-epimerase. This reversible reaction allows the cell to efficiently utilize glucose for the production of galactose-containing compounds. Defects in the pathways involving UDPgalaktóza can lead to serious metabolic disorders.