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BIO NMDCAT Carbohydrates
nmdcat.online June 27, 2026

The disaccharide trehalose is known for its ability to stabilize membranes and proteins during desiccation (drying) in organisms like tardigrades. This protective role is linked to its property as a

A. Strong reducing agent that prevents disulfide bond formation
B. Non-reducing sugar that can form hydrogen bonds with polar head groups of membranes, maintaining their structure in the absence of water
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C. Highly branched structure that creates a physical cage around proteins
D. Source of rapid energy during the dehydration process

📝 Explanation

The vitrification (glass formation) hypothesis suggests that trehalose forms a stable glassy matrix. Its many -OH groups replace the hydrogen bonds normally provided by water to the polar head groups of membrane phospholipids and to the protein surface, maintaining their native conformation during dry periods.

📖 Additional Information

  • Strong reducing agent that prevents disulfide bond formation
  • Non-reducing sugar that can form hydrogen bonds with polar head groups of membranes, maintaining their structure in the absence of water
  • Highly branched structure that creates a physical cage around proteins
  • Source of rapid energy during the dehydration process

The vitrification (glass formation) hypothesis suggests that trehalose forms a stable glassy matrix. Its many -OH groups replace the hydrogen bonds normally provided by water to the polar head groups of membrane phospholipids and to the protein surface, maintaining their native conformation during dry periods.

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