oligosackarides

Oligosaccharides are carbohydrates composed of a small number of monosaccharide units linked together by glycosidic bonds. Typically, an oligosaccharide consists of between three and ten monosaccharide units. Common examples include disaccharides like sucrose and lactose, which are made of two monosaccharide units, and trisaccharides. The specific type of monosaccharide and the linkage between them determine the properties and functions of the oligosaccharide.

These carbohydrates play various roles in biological systems. Some oligosaccharides act as energy sources, though they are generally less readily digestible than simpler sugars. In humans and animals, certain oligosaccharides are not digested in the small intestine and reach the large intestine, where they can serve as prebiotics. Prebiotics are compounds that selectively stimulate the growth and/or activity of beneficial bacteria in the colon, contributing to gut health.

Oligosaccharides are also found on the surface of cells, where they are involved in cell recognition, adhesion, and immune responses. For instance, they are important components of glycoproteins and glycolipids. In plants, oligosaccharides can be involved in signaling pathways and defense mechanisms. Their presence can influence plant development and resistance to pathogens. The study of oligosaccharides is a significant area within carbohydrate chemistry and biochemistry.