MDCAT Biology MCQ #875

A biochemistry student compares cellulose and starch. Which specific linkage in cellulose makes it indigestible by the human digestive system?

MDCAT Biology MCQ #875

  1. Question 1

    Q1. A biochemistry student compares cellulose and starch. Which specific linkage in cellulose makes it indigestible by the human digestive system?

    • A) Alpha-1,4-glycosidic bonds
    • B) Beta-1,4-glycosidic bonds
    • C) Alpha-1,6-glycosidic bonds
    • D) Beta-1,6-glycosidic bonds

    Answer: Beta-1,4-glycosidic bonds

    Explanation: Cellulose uses beta-1,4-glycosidic linkages which humans cannot digest, unlike the alpha-linkages found in starch and glycogen.