Carbohydrate Structure Determination

Carbohydrate structure determination is a critical step in understanding the chemistry and biochemistry of carbohydrates. It is important in elucidating the molecular basis of the many biological processes that involve carbohydrates, such as the synthesis of enzymes, hormones and vitamins. Carbohydrate structure determination involves the use of a variety of techniques, including spectroscopic and chromatographic methods, as well as X-ray crystallography and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. By using these techniques, scientists are able to accurately determine the three-dimensional structure of carbohydrates. This information is then used in the design of drugs and other biotechnological applications, as well as to gain insight into the biological roles of carbohydrates.