alphaglycosidase

Alpha-glucosidase is an enzyme that catalyzes the hydrolysis of alpha-linked terminal glucose residues from non-reducing ends of oligosaccharides and polysaccharides. It plays a crucial role in carbohydrate digestion in many organisms, breaking down complex sugars like starch and maltose into simpler glucose molecules that can be absorbed by the body. In humans, alpha-glucosidase is primarily found in the brush border of the small intestine.

There are several types of alpha-glucosidases, often classified by their substrate specificity and location. For example, sucrase-isomaltase is a key enzyme in intestinal digestion, responsible for breaking down sucrose and isomaltose. Glucogenic alpha-glucosidases are also involved in the breakdown of glycogen, a storage form of glucose.

Deficiencies in alpha-glucosidase activity can lead to various metabolic disorders. Glycogen storage disease type II, also known as Pompe disease, is caused by a deficiency in lysosomal alpha-glucosidase, leading to the accumulation of glycogen in lysosomes and cellular damage. Intestinal disaccharidase deficiencies, such as sucrase-isomaltase deficiency, can result in malabsorption and symptoms like diarrhea and bloating after consuming carbohydrates.

Inhibitors of alpha-glucosidase are used therapeutically to manage type 2 diabetes. These drugs, such as acarbose and miglitol, slow down carbohydrate digestion and absorption, thereby reducing postprandial hyperglycemia.