Glucose Metabolism: Pathways and Applications

This lecture covers the main pathways of glucose utilization, including the synthesis of structural polymers, oxidation via the pentose phosphate pathway, and the interplay between fermentation and aerobic respiration. It also explores the different types of fermentation, the recycling of NAD+ for glycolysis, and the significance of NADPH in reductive biosynthesis and oxidative stress protection. Additionally, it discusses glycogen metabolism, the regulation of blood glucose levels, and the process of gluconeogenesis, highlighting the importance of this pathway in providing glucose during fasting periods.