GALACTOSE METABOLISM AND ITS IMPORTANCE IN THE HUMAN BODY

This article examines the biochemical processes of galactose metabolism and its significance in the human body. Particular attention is paid to the Leloir pathway, which is the main route of galactose utilization in the liver. The article describes the main stages of galactose conversion, the functions of key enzymes involved in this process, and the role of galactose in energy metabolism and the synthesis of glycoproteins and glycolipids. It also discusses the biochemical mechanisms of galactose metabolism disorders, particularly classic galactosemia, which develops as a result of galactose-1-phosphate uridylyltransferase deficiency. Understanding these metabolic processes is essential for studying carbohydrate metabolism, identifying inherited metabolic disorders, and improving their early diagnosis and prevention of complications.