Definition of Glycoside



A glycoside is a molecule in which there is a sugar molecule that is being linked to another functional group. The two molecules are linked together with the aid of a glycosidic bond. Several important roles are played by these glycosides in living organisms.

 


Various medicines, dyes such as anthocyanin occur as glycosides in plants. A commonly used antibiotic streptomycin is also a glycoside. Animal urine is composed of glycosides which are derived from either glucuronic acid or steroids. Glycosides are divided into classes based on the presence of sugar molecule, type of glycosidic bond, and an aglycone.


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