CARBOHYDRATE METABOLISM AND RELATED PATHOLOGICAL DISORDERS
Keywords:
Carbohydrate metabolism, glycolysis, glycogenolysis, diabetes mellitus, metabolic disorders.Abstract
Carbohydrate metabolism is a vital biochemical process responsible for the breakdown, synthesis, and regulation of glucose and other sugars to meet the body's energy demands¹. Disruptions in these metabolic pathways can lead to a spectrum of pathological conditions, including diabetes mellitus (DM), glycogen storage diseases (GSDs), galactosemia, and hereditary fructose intolerance². These disorders often result from genetic mutations, enzymatic deficiencies, or impaired hormonal regulation, leading to systemic complications such as hyperglycemia, organ dysfunction, and neurological impairments³.
This review comprehensively examines the principal pathways of carbohydrate metabolism—glycolysis, gluconeogenesis, glycogenesis, glycogenolysis, and the pentose phosphate pathway—highlighting key regulatory mechanisms and enzymatic control points⁴. Furthermore, the study explores the etiology, pathophysiology, and clinical manifestations of major metabolic disorders associated with carbohydrate metabolism dysregulation⁵. Recent epidemiological data from the International Diabetes Federation (2023) indicate that over 537 million adults worldwide suffer from diabetes, with projections estimating a rise to 783 million by 2045⁶, underscoring the growing global health burden of metabolic diseases.
In addition to discussing diagnostic approaches (e.g., blood glucose monitoring, HbA1c testing, and genetic screening)⁷, this article evaluates current therapeutic strategies, including insulin therapy, dietary modifications, and emerging treatments such as enzyme replacement and gene therapy⁸. The study emphasizes the importance of early detection and personalized medicine in managing these disorders effectively⁹. Finally, the paper outlines future research directions, particularly in advanced molecular therapies and precision medicine, to address unmet clinical needs in the management of metabolic diseases¹⁰. By integrating biochemical insights with clinical data, this review aims to enhance the understanding of carbohydrate metabolism disorders and contribute to the development of improved diagnostic and therapeutic frameworks.
References
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