Galactose is a simple monosaccharide used as a component of the galactosyltransferase labeling buffer. It serves as an energy source and an important constituent of glycolipids and glycoproteins. Since it is a component of antigens, it plays a vital role in the determination of blood type within the ABO blood group system.
This Thermo Scientific Chemicals brand product was originally part of the Alfa Aesar product portfolio. Some documentation and label information may refer to the legacy brand. The original Alfa Aesar product / item code or SKU reference has not changed as a part of the brand transition to Thermo Scientific Chemicals.
General Description
- D-(+)-Galactose is a monosaccharide used as a component of the galactosyltransferase labeling buffer. The deficiency of galactosyl-1-phosphate uridyltransferase causes an error in galactose metabolism known as galactosemia, increasing the galactose levels in the blood
- D-(+)-Galactose is a component of the disaccharide lactose and is released upon hydrolysis by β-galactosidase enzymes
Application
- This compound can be used as a source of energy as it is an essential constituent of glycolipids and glycoproteins
- It is a component of antigens which makes it important for determining blood type within the ABO blood group system
- It has been used to induce the expression of uncoupling protein (UCP) in yeast transformants
- It is frequently used as a source of carbon in vitro culture media