Trehalose
Trehalose
Trehalose (/trɪˈhæloʊs/ tri-HAL-ohs) is a type of sugar found in a wide variety of organisms. It is a disaccharide consisting of two molecules of glucose and is known for its ability to protect certain organisms from extreme conditions.
Etymology
The term "Trehalose" is derived from the name of the plant Trehala manna, from which it was first extracted. The plant is native to the Middle East and is known for its sweet, honey-like taste.
Function
Trehalose is used by many organisms to survive in extreme conditions. It is known as a "stress sugar" because it helps protect cells from damage caused by dehydration, heat, cold, and other environmental stresses. In humans, trehalose is thought to have potential therapeutic uses, particularly in the treatment of Huntington's disease and Parkinson's disease.
Related Terms
- Disaccharide: A type of sugar molecule that is made up of two monosaccharides. Trehalose is a disaccharide made up of two glucose molecules.
- Glucose: A simple sugar that is an important energy source in living organisms. Trehalose is made up of two glucose molecules.
- Huntington's disease: A genetic disorder that causes the progressive breakdown of nerve cells in the brain. Trehalose is thought to have potential therapeutic uses in the treatment of Huntington's disease.
- Parkinson's disease: A long-term degenerative disorder of the nervous system that mainly affects the motor system. Trehalose is thought to have potential therapeutic uses in the treatment of Parkinson's disease.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Trehalose
- Wikipedia's article - Trehalose
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