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galactose 1-phosphate

chemical compound

Quick Summary

Galactose-1-phosphate is a chemical compound that plays a crucial role in the metabolism of galactose, a sugar found in milk. Normally, the body converts galactose into glucose through a series of enzymatic steps. In individuals with galactosemia, a hereditary disorder, the enzyme responsible for converting galactose-1-phosphate to glucose-1-phosphate is inactive. This metabolic block leads to an accumulation of galactose-1-phosphate in body tissues, which is believed to cause symptoms like cataracts and liver damage. Galactosemia can lead to serious health issues if untreated, but symptoms often regress when galactose is removed from the diet.1

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