
Uridine diphosphate glucose
Uridine diphosphate glucose (UDP-glucose) is a vital molecule in the body's metabolism, primarily involved in building and modifying complex carbohydrates. It acts as a carrier, transferring glucose—the basic sugar unit—to other molecules or structures, such as glycogen (the stored form of glucose in the liver and muscles) or certain components of cell walls. UDP-glucose is formed when a glucose molecule attaches to a carrier protein called uridine diphosphate. This process enables efficient storage and utilization of glucose for energy and cell structure maintenance, playing a crucial role in energy management and biosynthesis within the body.