Carbohydrates Biochemistry– Structure, Classification & Biological Role B.Pharmacy 2nd Semester 2025 (2024-2025) Previous Year's Question Papers/Notes Download - HK Technical PGIMS

This document provides an in-depth exploration of carbohydrate metabolism, biochemical pathways, and clinical applications, covering essential topics like glycolysis, the TCA cycle, glycogen storage diseases, and carbohydrate classification. Key highlights include:

Core Metabolic Pathways:

• Glycolysis & TCA Cycle: Step-by-step breakdown of glucose to pyruvate, acetyl-CoA, and ATP/NADH production, including aerobic vs. anaerobic conditions.

• Link Reaction: Irreversible conversion of pyruvate to acetyl-CoA (PDH complex) and its role in energy metabolism.

• Carbohydrate Chemistry: Structure-function relationships of monosaccharides (glucose, fructose), disaccharides (lactose, sucrose), and polysaccharides (starch, cellulose).

Specialized Topics:

• Glycogen Storage Diseases: Enzyme deficiencies (e.g., Von Gierke’s, McArdle’s) and their clinical impacts (hypoglycemia, muscle fatigue).

• Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs): Structure and functions of heparin, chondroitin sulfate, and hyaluronic acid in anticoagulation and tissue integrity.

• Isomerism & Optical Activity: D/L configurations, enantiomers, and reducing vs. non-reducing sugars.

Advanced Concepts:

• Warburg Effect: Aberrant glycolysis in cancer cells and its diagnostic significance.

• Shuttles (Malate-Aspartate, Glycerol Phosphate): NADH transport mechanisms for mitochondrial ATP synthesis.

• Diagnostic Tests: Fehling’s test (reducing sugars), iodine test (starch), and osazone formation for sugar identification.