alfaglükosidaz

Alpha-glucosidase is an enzyme that plays a crucial role in carbohydrate digestion. It belongs to the glycoside hydrolase family, specifically hydrolyzing alpha-glucosidic bonds in disaccharides and oligosaccharides. This means it breaks down sugars like maltose, sucrose, and isomaltose into simpler monosaccharides, primarily glucose, which can then be absorbed by the body.

The primary location for alpha-glucosidase activity is in the brush border of the small intestine. Here, it works in conjunction with other enzymes like sucrase and maltase to complete the breakdown of dietary carbohydrates. This process is essential for obtaining energy from food.

Deficiencies in alpha-glucosidase can lead to certain metabolic disorders. For example, a deficiency in lysosomal alpha-glucosidase is the cause of Pompe disease, a rare genetic disorder characterized by the accumulation of glycogen in lysosomes, leading to muscle weakness and damage. In the context of carbohydrate digestion, impaired alpha-glucosidase function can result in malabsorption of carbohydrates, leading to symptoms like bloating, gas, and diarrhea.

In pharmaceutical applications, alpha-glucosidase inhibitors are used as a treatment for type 2 diabetes. These drugs work by slowing down the digestion and absorption of carbohydrates, thereby reducing the postprandial (after-meal) rise in blood glucose levels.