Mucopolysaccharide (Noun)
Meaning
Complex polysaccharides containing an amino group; occur chiefly as components of connective tissue.
Classification
Nouns denoting substances.
Examples
- Mucopolysaccharides, such as hyaluronic acid and chondroitin, play a crucial role in maintaining the structure and function of connective tissue in the body.
- The repeated disaccharide units of mucopolysaccharides are linked together in long chains, forming a complex molecule with a high molecular weight.
- In connective tissue, mucopolysaccharides form a gel-like matrix that surrounds and supports cells, allowing them to function properly.
- Defects in the production or breakdown of mucopolysaccharides can lead to a range of diseases, including mucopolysaccharidoses such as Hurler syndrome.
- Mucopolysaccharides are often composed of repeating units of uronic acid and hexosamine, which are linked together through glycosidic bonds to form the polysaccharide chain.