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In: Chemistry

Cellulose could provide an abundant and cheap form of glucose for humans.


Cellulose could provide an abundant and cheap form of glucose for humans. 

Why is cellulose not a source of nutrients for humans? 

  • Animals use starch and glycogen as an energy source, whereas plants use cellulose for energy. 

  • Cellulose digestion must occur in a basic environment, but the human gut is acidic. 

  • Humans cannot absorb the hydrolyzed form of cellulose.

  •  Humans, and most vertebrates, lack the enzyme cellulase. 

  • Vertebrate enzymes are unable to hydrolyze ( 1-4) linked glucose monomers.

Solutions

Expert Solution

queen_honey_blossom answered 2 years ago
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