Question

Cellulose could provide an abundant and cheap form of glucose for humans. 

Why is cellulose not a source of nutrients for humans? 

• Animals use starch and glycogen as an energy source, whereas plants use cellulose for energy. 

• Cellulose digestion must occur in a basic environment, but the human gut is acidic. 

• Humans cannot absorb the hydrolyzed form of cellulose.

•  Humans, and most vertebrates, lack the enzyme cellulase. 

• Vertebrate enzymes are unable to hydrolyze ( 1-4) linked glucose monomers.

Answer 1