Chapter 15, Problem 64QP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

Use of radioactive nuclides in sugar substitute for metabolism is to be explained.

Concept Introduction:

Sugars are metabolized inside the human tissues producing energy. The human body consumes a variety of sugar and digestion breaks down complex sugars into few simple monomers for metabolism. The simple monomers are glucose, fructose, and galactose. These monomers have many free hydroxyl groups in their structure. If a hydroxyl group of glucose moiety is replaced by a radioactive nuclide like ${}^{\text{18}}\text{F}$ atom, it behaves similar to the glucose and body will accept it and use it in a normal way. Thus, by tracking down the positron emission tomography (PET), the metabolism of sugar in tissues can be understood.