Cellulose could provide an abundant and cheap form of glucose for humans. Why is cellulose not a source of nutrients for humans? <ul class=" list-paddingleft-2" style="list-style-type: disc;"><li>Animals use starch and glycogen as an energy source, whereas plants use cellulose for energy. </li><li>Cellulose digestion must occur in a basic environment, but the human gut is acidic. </li><li>Humans cannot absorb the hydrolyzed form of cellulose.</li><li> Humans, and most vertebrates, lack the enzyme cellulase. </li><li>Vertebrate enzymes are unable to hydrolyze ( 1-4) linked glucose monomers.</li></ul>

Question

In: Chemistry

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.

Expert Solution

queen_honey_blossom answered 2 years ago

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