What is the Biological Role of Carbohydrates ?

Answer: Carbohydrates provide energy, store fuel, support cellular structure, facilitate communication, and assist in immune responses.

The biological role of carbohydrates encompasses several critical functions across organisms:

1. Primary Energy Source: Glucose, a simple sugar, is essential for producing ATP, the cell’s energy.
2. Energy Storage: Plants and animals store excess glucose as starch and glycogen, respectively, for future energy needs.
3. Structural Support: Cellulose in plant cell walls and chitin in fungal cell walls and arthropod exoskeletons provide structural integrity.
4. Cell Communication: Glycoproteins and glycolipids on cell surfaces are key in cell recognition and signaling.
5. Immune Function: Carbohydrates on pathogen surfaces trigger to initiate immune responses.
6. Digestive Health: Dietary fibers aid in digestion and maintaining gut health.
7. Genetic Information: Ribose and deoxyribose sugars are vital components of RNA and DNA.

Also, check out our easy-to-read article on Carbohydrates, if you want to learn more.