Please provide steps involved in the digestion of cellulose, the names of the different bacteria and the enzymes involved.
2007-03-22 01:18:32 · 3 answers · asked by Anonymous in Science & Mathematics ➔ Biology
cellulose isnt digested its fiber
2007-03-22 02:03:07 · answer #1 · answered by wesnaw1 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Humans (along with many other mammals) do not have the necessary enzymes and bacterial flora to digest cellulose.
Ruminants (cows, sheep, etc.) have bacteria (Cellulomonas) in their stomach that possess the necessary enzymes (glycoside hydrolases) that are capable of the glycosidic hydrolysis required for proper digestion. Some fungi also have this capability.
2007-03-22 08:42:28 · answer #2 · answered by leprechaun 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Humans don't digest cellulose.
Cellulose is the major component of plant cell walls and is commonly referred to as "fiber". Although not digestible, it is necessary in a balanced diet to aid in the retention of water in our digestive system and to keep things "moving along". It is eliminated from the body along with other fecal materials.
2007-03-22 09:19:40 · answer #3 · answered by ursaitaliano70 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋